Asda is facing walkouts by lorry drivers at its Rochdale operations hub over Christmas in a dispute over pay.
Around 80 lorry drivers at the supermarket’s Rochdale facility, which is run by Wincanton, are planning to take industrial action over the festive period, The Telegraph reported.
Union chiefs at Unite said the strike action, which is set to take place during several dates in December and on January 2, could lead to shortages of chilled foods on Asda’s shelves.
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The drivers, who are employed by Wincanton, argue they are being paid £1.24 an hour less than counterparts doing the same role at Asda’s Lutterworth facility. Staff at Lutterworth are employed directly by the supermarket.
The workers also claim to be receiving lower rates for overtime, as well as for night, weekend and bank holiday shifts.
Asda is understood to be planning to use its own 2,000 network of drivers on strike days to limit disruption.
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.”
A spokesman for Asda said: “These negotiations are between Wincanton and Unite and we would encourage them to reach an agreement that is acceptable to both parties.
“We employ a large number of Asda delivery-driver colleagues who deliver to our stores every day and we are confident that customers will be able to get everything they need in store to enjoy a wonderful Christmas.”
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.”
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