Asda

Retirement: Increased flexibility

ASDA introduced a flexible retirement policy in response to:

• Requests from colleagues to continue working after company NRA on a full-time and part-time basis
• A desire to retain skilled and valued older colleagues
• A wish to recruit older colleagues
• A drive to introduce age neutral employment policies and be a 'responsible employer.'

ASDA has allowed colleagues stay on beyond retirement since the mid 1980's. The business case for the development of the policy is clear, and ASDA emphasises that not to value every element of the contribution of the workforce - whatever their age - is bad business. Currently flexible retirement policies are informal. However, the company's approach has been to create a corporate culture that encourages flexibility and choice in working conditions for colleagues, irrespective of age. This has removed the concept of a normal 'retirement age' from the company's language.

At the moment any colleagues working post NRA are required to undertake 6 monthly reviews with managers to ensure hours/duties are suitable and meet both the colleague and company's needs.

All policies will be reviewed to ensure they comply with age laws in 2006.

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