Thousands of staff at supermarket giant Tesco could be at risk amid speculation it is about to axe some of its in-store fresh food counters.

The changes would affect stores across its portfolio - including its many outlets in Kent - according to reports in the Mail on Sunday.

Some 15,000 jobs nationwide could be put at risk if the supermarket goes ahead with plans to cut completely, or scale back, its delicatessen, fish and meat counters at its bigger stores.

It also said in-store bakeries could be changed, with frozen - instead of fresh dough - being used, while staff canteens could be replaced with vending machines.

None of the information included in the report has been confirmed.

A spokesman for Tesco would only say: "We’re always looking at ways to run our business more simply and efficiently.

"Whenever we make changes in our business, colleagues are always the first to know.”

It is thought an announcement may be made in the coming days, amid internal concerns over staff uncertainty over their futures following the reports.

Union bosses say the news and speculation has been "distressing" for staff.

Pauline Foulkes, national officer of shop workers' union Usdaw, said: “Reports and speculation in the media about significant job cuts are distressing for Tesco staff and it is appalling that they should hear about the future of their jobs in this way.

"Usdaw is seeking an urgent meeting with the company to clarify the situation, to examine the details of what changes they are proposing and what this means for staff.

"Our priority will be to press Tesco to confirm the details of their proposed changes to stop any further speculation. In the meantime Usdaw’s officials and reps are on hand to support our members and further updates will be provided once we have further information.”

It all comes on the back of a difficult Christmas trading period for retailers and intense competition among the major supermarkets.

In addition, Tesco is looking at saving £1.5billion which has already seen thousands of jobs cut in recent years.