Asda workers at its Lowestoft branch have voted to strike over “a litany of issues” in the store, according to GMB Union.
Staff members at the supermarket are reportedly angry over a series of issues, including cuts in hours, poor quality training, and bullying management.
The trade union claimed nearly 200 of its members were set to down tools after 87% voted for industrial action, on an 80% turnout, with strike dates set to be confirmed within the coming days.
GMB said workers were also frustrated over health and safety issues not being addressed, rampant fire safety breaches, equal pay not being resolved in a timely manner, and no collective bargaining with GMB.
Lowestoft will become the third Asda to face a strike, with workers at Wisbech set for industrial action over Easter weekend and staff members in Gosport previously walking out in February.
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GMB regional organiser Keith Dixon said: “Asda’s owners are not investing in stores and workers are paying the price.
“The evidence is clear; thousands of health and safety breaches, including blocked fire exits, fire routes, and fire extinguishers, along with faulty fire alarm systems. At the same time workers face cuts to their hours and inadequate training.”
He continued: “They’ve had enough and are walking out to make sure Asda listens.
“GMB is behind every one of our members within Asda Lowestoft in making sure their voices are heard and they are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.”
In response to the news, an Asda spokesperson said: “We value feedback from our colleagues and have worked collaboratively with the GMB representatives in Lowestoft to address the points raised.
“While we are disappointed by the outcome of the ballot, we will continue to engage with GMB representatives to try and reach an amicable solution.”
They continued: “It is important to note that fewer than 50% of colleagues at the Lowestoft store have said they would support industrial action, and we can reassure colleagues and customers that we have comprehensive plans in place to minimise disruption in the event of industrial action at the store.”
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