Woolworths has announced it will close the majority of its butcher counters across the country.

44 counters across the state will be shut and leave an estimated 500 people jobless nationwide.

Australasian Meat Industry Employees Union Federal Secretary Matt Journeaux told 6PR Afternoons this has come as a major shock.

“It’s a massive blow to these workers,” said Mr Journeaux.

Press PLAY below to hear what Mr Journeaux had to say