The GMB Union has revealed the dates that thousands of Wilko staff will walk out in protest over new weekend working rotas.
Around 1,800 GMB members at two Wilko distribution centres – in Magor, Wales and Worksop, Nottinghamshire – will strike for 24 hours from 06:00 on 11 October and again on 14 October.
The union stated that the industrial action was likely to cripple Wilko deliveries to stores across the UK.
Recent talks with the retailer’s management failed to resolve the long-running dispute, prompting the GMB to ask those affected to vote on whether to take strike action.
Gary Carter, GMB National Officer, said: “It is sad that it has come to this. We have done everything we can to try to negotiate a reduction in the amount of weekend working, but the offer from management is not acceptable. Wilko has always considered itself a family company – yet they’re forcing contracts on staff that will seriously impose on family time and workers’ wellbeing.
“GMB members will stand together and show Wilko management how strongly we feel about these harsh new contracts.”
A spokesperson for Wilko said the retailer had “robust” plans in place to cope with any disruption.
They added: “We don’t believe industrial action is in anyone’s best interests at this challenging time for the high street and retail in general.”
The Wilko chain returned to profit in its last financial year, aided by a cost-cutting drive. However, sales slipped amidst the “challenging” trading environment.
NAM Implications:
- Key will be distortions in sales stats…
- …arising from buffering, official and unofficial…
- …especially in finely tuned supply chains…
