THE Co-op Group, which has stores in Westbury and Melksham, has caused concern among employees by changing its pension scheme.

The chain has axed a scheme based on final salary, replacing it with a career average scheme, meaning employees in Co-op retail stores face having to make larger monthly payments, just to maintain their present pension provision.

Retail union Usdaw has expressed concern at the decision. National officer Sharon Ainsworth said: "This decision that will leave most of their staff worse off is at odds with the traditions of the Co-operative movement and their much vaunted ethical trading policy."

However the Co-op Group argues this new scheme is a positive step forward.

Nick Eyre, the group secretary said: "The scheme is fair and equitable for all employees and is more suited to flexible working and lifestyle patterns."