Morrisons logistics workers are preparing for potential strike action, sparking concerns over empty supermarket shelves in Cheshire and Wakefield.
- Up to 1,000 staff claim imbalanced pension contributions where Morrisons reduces its share, prompting calls of “flagrant profiteering”.
- Unite union reports staff face new pick rate demands, role changes, and absence policy issues alongside pension concerns.
- The ballot, open from 18 April to 9 May, could lead to strikes throughout spring and summer if unresolved.
- Morrisons withheld comment on the situation, despite union warnings of industrial action.
As logistics workers at Morrisons consider strike action, the potential for disruption looms large, with the Unite union warning of empty shelves if the 1,000 staff in Cheshire and Wakefield choose to walk out. Amid allegations of being forced into higher pension contributions while the supermarket reduces its own, concerns of “flagrant profiteering” have arisen, exacerbating tensions in the workplace.
The affected employees span various roles, from warehouse stock controllers to cooks and administrators. The recent changes have compounded staff grievances, introducing a contentious new “pick rate” system which measures the speed at which items are packed from warehouse shelves. Additionally, the removal of a long-standing service award and enforced alterations to job roles have contributed to the growing dissatisfaction among the workforce.
Unite national officer Adrian Jones expressed dismay at the situation, stating, “Our members provide a vital service ensuring supermarket shelves are full.” He criticised Morrisons for unilaterally imposing pension changes that unfavourably affect staff financially, coupled with contentious alterations to working conditions.
The ballot for industrial action opened on 18 April and remains open until 9 May. Should the vote favour a strike, and no resolution is reached amicably, significant disruption is anticipated over the spring and summer months. The union’s stance is firm, suggesting that without concessions from Morrisons, industrial actions are inevitable.
Despite the severe implications and potential impact on operations, Morrisons has opted not to comment on the matter. The retail giant’s silence only adds to the speculation and uncertainty surrounding the dispute, as workers and union representatives await the outcome of the ballot.
The unfolding situation at Morrisons exemplifies the potential for industrial action when employee grievances are not adequately addressed.
