More than 150 Asda workers at Wisbech have called off a threatened strike for tomorrow (Friday). Bosses at the GMB union said postponement of strike action has been “paused at the eleventh hour after the company agreed to ACAS talks”.
A union spokesperson said Asda had agreed to enter into negotiations alongside the conciliation service.
GMB members were angry over a series of issues, including cuts in hours, health and safety, equal pay, and collective bargaining.
Keith Dixon, GMB regional organiser, said: “Asda used to be a professional company, with a focus upon compliance and the wellbeing of their colleagues.
“That time has passed.
“The company have changed since the ownership of TDR Capital.
“Asda Wisbech members need action and demands Asda enters into talks with GMB and ACAS in good faith
“Further action will commence if the company continues to ignore the dispute points raised.”
Last month Mr Dixon said that Asda Wisbech bosses were fully aware of why workers are angry.
“But despite several meetings with senior directors, the company seems to be completely missing the point,” he said.
“Not one dispute point has been addressed by ASDA, while suggestions put forward by GMB have been ignored.
“Management seems happy to ignore problems, cover them up or brush them under the carpet.”
An Asda spokesperson told trade journal Retail Gazette: “Industrial action only ever serves to harm our colleagues, customers, and community so we are pleased that the GMB have agreed to the proposal we made at the start of the week to meet with us at ACAS. We will now meet with their representatives to discuss their concerns.”
