News
Morrisons warehouse workers back new pay offer after industrial dispute
The Unite the union members in Cheshire and Yorkshire backed an updated offer from the retailer following an ongoing industrial dispute over pensions, pay and working conditions.
Strike action took place in May 2024 action over proposed changes to worker pension contributions, which Unite said “would have left them hundreds of pounds a year worse off”.
Further industrial action had been planned for this month, but that was suspended when Unite and Morrisons came to a fresh agreement on 10 June.
That deal has now been accepted by the members following a vote, something that Unite general secretary Sharon Graham described as a “great win” that “shows the real power of a union in the workplace”.
“I'm delighted they have achieved their goals and that the supermarket has seen sense and come up with an acceptable outcome,” added Graham.
Under the new deal, Morrisons workers will contribute the same amount as presently towards their pension, while improved benefits include a new service award scheme which will pay up to £350 for long-service milestones.
From 1 July, a 9% increase will be applied on all rates of pay including weekend incentive premiums and freezer allowance with the existing additional anti-social hours shift pay maintained. Unite has also forced Morrisons to conduct reviews of pick rates and job roles in a transparent manner and with full union involvement.
Unite national officer Adrian Jones added: "Our members took to the picket line and were prepared to disrupt supplies to Morrisons’ stores to make their anger felt. They stood strong and have won an important workplace victory including improved pay and conditions as well as protecting their pension contributions.
“Instead of being hundreds of pounds out of pocket they are thousands of pounds up. This is further evidence that if you want your employer to hear your voice loud and clear, join a union."
Speaking when the deal was agreed with Unite, a Morrisons spokesperson told Food Manufacture: “We are pleased that through open communication with Unite we have together found a way forward.”
In other news, Asda workers and GMB members have staged a protest against TDR Capital taking a majority stake in the retailer.
