// Asda has reached an agreement with Unite, avoiding strike action with over 80 outsourced HGV drivers
// Fresh negotiations were held and the union said a “vastly improved” deal of a 9.5% increase had been agreed upon
Asda has managed to avoid strike action involving Asda supply chain drivers in the run-up to Christmas after reaching an agreement with the union.
According to the Grocer, over 80 outsourced HGV drivers, employed by Wincanton for delivering food to the supermarket‘s regional distribution centres, had begun to ballot for industrial action in a dispute over pay.
The drivers transport goods to the supermarket’s regional DCs covering as far north as Falkirk and to Bedford and Bristol in the south.
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After an announcement of the ballot by Unite, fresh negotiations were held and the union said a “vastly improved” deal of a 9.5% increase had been agreed upon, giving a basic pay rate of £14.97.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “This was an important win for our members at Wincanton, who were not prepared to endure low pay rates any longer,”
“Unite’s commitment to always focus on the jobs, pay and conditions of its members is paying off.”
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