Rochdale, UK: The Unite union is warning that there could be nationwide shortages of chilled foods at Asda stores during strikes by HGV drivers who work at the supermarket’s Rochdale distribution centre;
Around 80 HGV drivers, employed by Wincanton on the Asda contract, will strike over the Christmas period. Unite says they are angry at being paid £1.24 an hour less than their counterparts at the Lutterworth distribution centre in Leicestershire. The Rochdale drivers’ overtime, night, weekend and bank holiday rates are also said to be less than those paid at Lutterworth.
Both sets of drivers used to be employed by EV Cargo before transferring under TUPE regulations in 2021. The Lutterworth drivers are now employed directly by Asda and the Rochdale drivers directly by Wincanton.
A Wincanton spokesperson said: “We can confirm that we are currently in constructive talks with Unite and Asda to find a solution which is satisfactory for all parties based at our site in Rochdale. We have made a competitive offer which we hope is accepted, and which is currently under consideration by Unite and its members.”
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Our members are sick of being treated as second class workers and are demanding pay parity with their colleagues who are doing the same job. Both Asda and Wincanton are wealthy companies that can more than afford to right this wrong.
“Unite always defends our members’ jobs, pay and conditions and these drivers have the full support of their union behind them.”
The drivers will strike on 13, 15, 17, 20, 26, 28 and 30 December and 2 January with more strikes scheduled if the dispute is not resolved.
Unite regional officer Paul Lomax said: “Asda shoppers will be disappointed that shelves could run bare during the festive period, but this is entirely the fault of Wincanton and Asda for denying our members’ pay parity.
“Strike action can only be avoided if Wincanton makes a vastly improved offer, the ball is now firmly in its court.”
