Workers at the Farmfoods Solihull distribution centre have announced a two-day walkout due to ongoing disputes over pay and working conditions.
- The GMB Union has highlighted that work rates have already decreased by over 15% due to these conflicts.
- Company management is accused of ignoring demands for fair pay, union recognition, and improved safety standards.
- Around 100 employees are expected to participate in the strike, scheduled for 24-25 September.
- Farmfoods management has yet to provide an official comment on the upcoming industrial action.
Workers at the Solihull distribution centre of Farmfoods have decided to undertake a two-day strike, expressing their dissatisfaction over unresolved issues concerning pay and working conditions. The GMB Union, representing these workers, describes the situation as a significant dispute over critical employment rights.
According to the GMB Union, the campaign aimed at enhancing working conditions has already resulted in a noticeable decline in productivity, with work rates reportedly falling by over 15%. This is seen as a reflection of the discontent and challenges faced by the employees amidst the ongoing disputes.
A major point of contention remains the company’s reluctance to accede to requests for union recognition and fair pay. Management’s dismissal of these calls has exacerbated the situation, as noted by GMB organiser Tom Warnett.
Warnett stated: “These workers have stood loyally with Farmfoods as it’s grown to a company with over £1bn in sales, but now they’re being told there isn’t the money for proper pay rises. They’re being asked to meet gruelling targets but management refuses to listen when they call for better pay, union recognition and a safer working environment.” These remarks underscore the workers’ sense of betrayal and urgency for resolution.
As the industrial action looms, with around 100 workers expected to participate, the GMB Union continues to urge Farmfoods’ leadership to engage in meaningful dialogue and address the workers’ grievances effectively. Thus far, Farmfoods has chosen not to issue any official statement regarding the impending strike action.
The onus is on Farmfoods to address these pressing concerns or risk further disruption from their workforce.
