About 70% of polled Asda distribution workers have turned down the retailer’s latest pay offer, with strike action now a potential option for workers.
Following an offer made by the retailer in December, 94% of warehouse and clerical workers and LGV drivers voted in favour of strike action. Asda subsequently replied with the revised pay offer. Around 8,000 GMB Union members working in Asda warehouses voted earlier this month on whether to accept the new deal.
The union reported that rising living costs, including food price inflation and energy prices, has meant that Asda’s revised pay offer translates as a “real-terms pay cut.”
Jon Parry, the vice-president of Asda Logistics Services, said: “We value the key role our colleagues play to keep our stores well stocked, and we have negotiated in good faith with the GMB to make a fair, competitive and sustainable pay offer that recognises rising inflation. We are disappointed this has been rejected.”
The potential strikes could affect all 23 distribution depots serving the UK’s third largest supermarket chain. GMB will now meet with members to discuss next steps.
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