Argos delivery drivers at its main distribution centre have voted to strike for three days from December 20.
In a move that could cause Christmas chaos, the Argos drivers join Post Office workers in striking during a crucial delivery period, putting many Christmas orders at risk.
Unite union members, who deliver goods from the company‘s central warehouse in Staffordshire to regional centres, are protesting over holiday pay.
The 35 drivers are said to be owed £700 in holiday pay dating back two years, after a dispute emerged over whether overtime and additional shifts should come under holiday pay terms.
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“The drivers have patiently tried to resolve this matter for over two years. Now they would like the money they are owed in time for Christmas, which is not unreasonable,” Unite regional director Rick Coyle said.
“It is very difficult to understand why Wincanton has allowed this saga to get out of hand because this strike by our members will cause havoc and mayhem to deliveries to Argos shops in the run-up to Christmas,” he said.
“There will be a lot of very unhappy Argos customers, if they don‘t receive the iPhones, TVs and white goods that they have ordered as presents for relatives this Christmas.”
Argos said in response to the action: “We would encourage both sides to keep talking with the aim of coming to a swift resolution.
“We also have contingency plans in place and can reassure customers we‘re working hard to ensure this will not impact our deliveries this Christmas.”
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