There will be cordial negotiations over the chain’s goals. But a strike ballot could follow if major concessions are not made.
According to a union source, Asda faces the possibility of strike action unless it makes significant concessions on its so-called “efficiency” measures, which have put thousands of jobs in danger.
GMB delegates convened on Thursday night, hours after Asda unveiled a set of proposals mostly including the elimination of certain higher-paid nightshift employees.
While 211-night shift managerial positions were at risk as a result of the proposed changes. 4,137 hourly-paid employees would be reassigned to daytime shifts. Resulting in the loss of a night shift pay premium of at least £2.52 per hour.
Asda stated that its upcoming changes are a result of changing consumer preferences. And a desire to operate as efficiently as possible.
The GMB, a longtime opponent of the debt-fueled takeover of the chain by the Issa brothers. And TDR Capital in 2021, has declared the plans “impractical.”
Due to the cost of the living problem, it is said that many of those being requested to adjust their hours would be unable to withstand the salary cut.
Additionally, the union stated that the amended shifts will end at midnight, posing extra logistical challenges for the personnel.
According to the source, a considerable number of employees are expected to be laid off under the current plans.
Asda may strike over plans to cut thousands of jobs
They stated, however, that the official consultation period would be approached constructively. And that negotiations would attempt to win concessions from management to avoid a strike vote.
Officer of the nation Nadine Houghton stated in a statement. Many Asda employees believe that this is merely a cost-cutting measure required to alleviate the financial pressure of the debt leveraged bonanza to acquire Asda. However, it will impact some of the lowest paid retail workers on the high street.
“These modifications to nighttime restocking have infuriated night workers, who will now lose between £300 and £500 each month.
Due to the loss of night improvements and hours, many claim that they will not be able to afford the new hours being offered. We could see massive employment losses.”
