Third Asda store votes to strike over ‘litany of issues’

Around 120 members are set to walk out at Lowestoft, after 87% voted for industrial action on a turnout of 80%, although this has been 

Members are said to be angry over issues including: “Cuts in hours, poor quality training, bullying management, health and safety issues not being addressed, fire safety breaches rampant, equal pay not resolved in a timely manner, and no collective bargaining with GMB.”

The Lowestoft store is the third Asda store to face strikes, following industrial action in Gosport last month, and an upcoming strike over Easter weekend at Wisbech.

Stores in Brighton Hollingbury and Brighton Marina had also balloted for potential action but ultimately voted against striking.

The new strike dates at Lowestoft will be announced in the coming days.

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. They’ve had enough and are walking out to make sure Asda listens.

“GMB is behind every one of our members at Asda Lowestoft in making sure their voices are heard and they are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.”

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.

”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.”