Supermarket chain Asda’s Lowestoft store in the UK is on the brink of industrial action as a consultative ballot indicates that almost 90% of GMB union members are ready to vote for a strike.
The ballot saw a turnout of just under 80%. Workers at the store have highlighted a series of grievances, including cuts in hours, inadequate training, health and safety concerns and management issues.
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The GMB is set to notify Asda of the impending strike vote, expected to commence in early next month.
GMB regional organiser Keith Dixon stated: “Asda has lost its leadership [and] its direction and management no longer values colleagues. The current state of the company is dire.”
Lowestoft is the fifth Asda location to face the prospect of industrial action, following similar situations at Gosport and strike votes at Wisbech.
Earlier this month, the trade union conducted ballots at Asda’s Brighton Hollingbury and Marina stores due to staff dissatisfaction with management’s response to a range of complaints.
Dixon added: “GMB Members in Asda Lowestoft are fed up with lies, they want issues resolving… they do not want to be fobbed off. We have evidence of 4,000 health and safety breaches, including blocked fire exits, fire routes and fire extinguishers, along with faulty fire alarm systems.
“It’s illegal and it should be addressed — we have sent photographic evidence to Asda but they appear to be burying their heads in the sand.”
“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.”
