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A mega supermarket merger could cost jobs if stores and warehouses are sold, union chiefs fear.

Sainsbury’s and Asda’s £15billion plan to join forces would create a retail giant bigger than market leader Tesco.

The GMB thinks competition watchdogs will make them sell stores in areas where they could have a monopoly.

The union, which represents Asda staff, believes 75 Asda stores and 11 distribution centres are at risk ­because of their proximity to similar Sainsbury’s shops and warehouses.

GMB national officer Gary Carter said the deal, which may take up to two years to finalise, has left staff fearful about their prospects.

(Image: PA)

He said: “Asda have said to us they are going to continue as a separate ­operation and there are no plans for store closures and changes.

“We’re concerned that where there have been mergers and takeovers within the retail sector in the past it has resulted in stores being sold and rationalisation within the distribution and head office functions.”

Mr Carter spoke after meeting bosses at US-owned Asda.

He said: “It seems Sainsbury’s are very much in the driving seat and our Asda members are seeing it as a takeover. I’m sure Sainsbury’s and Asda will want to retain their market share but equally we want to make sure jobs and livelihoods are protected.

“People want long-term job security but it’s likely to be up in the air for quite a long time.”

An Asda spokesman said: “Asda and Sainsbury’s will continue to operate as two separate retailers, and this proposed merger offers a great deal for customers.

“There are no planned store and depot closures as a result of the proposed combination.”