Wilko workers "Ready to strike" over sick pay changes
The company say industrial action "isn't in anyone's best interests"
Last updated 18th Mar 2021
The GMB Union say a consultative ballot saw 88% of their 4000 Wilko Employees voting for industrial action following "savage" cuts.
The Union say the dispute is due to the company, who have their HQ in Nottingham, reducing the number of paid sick days for some employees.
Roger Jenkins, GMB National Officer, said:
“Wilko keyworkers are furious – and no wonder. They’ve worked through the pandemic - risking themselves and their families - dealing with a lack of social distancing, increased threats and abuse from customers.
"Now bosses have told them they’re slashing their sick pay entitlement, which management are keeping theirs. It’s grotesque.
"Wilko, a so-called family company, should be utterly ashamed of themselves.
“GMB has contacted Wilko requesting meaningful negotiation on the sick pay agreement.
“If Wilko will not negotiate then GMB members have spoken and strike action across the company will be inevitable.”
Meanwhile an official statement from a Wilko spokesperson said “We’re naturally disappointed with the ballot result, industrial action isn’t in anyone’s best interest at this challenging time for both retail in general and the High Street. We believe the right way to resolve any differences for the benefit of our customers and team members is through listening, talking and working things through together.”