Asda strike looms as thousands reject pay deal

According to the GMB trade union, almost 70% of its 8,000 members with Asda’s distribution network voted to reject the deal, which would offer pay rises of between 5% and 7.5%.

Asda had offered an increase of 4.98% to 6.10% for warehouse and clerical workers, as well as an increase of 6.49% to 7.53% for transport workers. The exact increase for each worker was dependent on location, role and grade.

Asda also stated that the offer was neither recommended nor rejected by the union itself.

Almost 80% said they were prepared to take strike action over the deal. The next step would see GMB, Asda and conciliation service Acas meeting to discuss the rejection, following the signing of the National Recognition Agreement by both GMB and Asda in 2012.

Any potential strike would impact all 23 of Asda’s distribution depots.

GMB national officer Nadine Houghton said: “The UK is facing the worst cost-of-living crisis for a generation. Inflation is rampant and energy prices are out of control. Yet Asda workers are being taken for mugs with a below-inflation pay offer that basically means a real-terms pay cut.

“They’re not going to take it lying down – it’s now up to Asda bosses to come back with a reasonable offer and avert the threat of industrial action.”

Asda logistics services vice-president Jon Parry said: “We value the key role our colleagues play to keep our stores well-stocked and we have negotiated in good faith with the GMB to make a fair, competitive and sustainable pay offer that recognises rising inflation. We are disappointed this has been rejected.”

This marks the latest chapter in an ongoing battle between the union and the grocer, with 94% of those balloted by GMB in December voting to move to a formal strike ballot following calls for a fair pay deal before Christmas.  

• Get the latest grocery news and analysis straight to your inbox – sign up for our weekly newsletter