Scrooge in Boots

Boots has joined the list of "Scrooge employers" identified by Labour Research (December 2000) by scrapping some of its perks for retired staff, such as Christmas cards and tea afternoons. In an effort to cut costs the group is also abandoning the tradition of sending flowers to former employees who reach 100.

In a Christmas message to pensioners, group personnel director Michael Ruddell said the cuts had only been made after "much soul searching and deliberation".

Boots is aiming to save œ100 million across its business.

Shop workers' union Usdaw accused Boots of being mean spirited and called on the company to reconsider.