December 7th 2024.
After over two weeks of striking, Woolworths has finally reached an agreement with the United Workers Union. The strike, initiated by more than 1500 warehouse workers, was a result of their dissatisfaction with pay and working conditions. This led to a shortage of products on supermarket shelves, causing inconvenience to customers.
But now, things are looking up as the distribution centre in Dandenong South, Victoria is expected to resume operations tonight. Woolworths' spokesperson revealed that the United Workers Union has endorsed the company's new enterprise agreement offers this afternoon. This positive development also means that the Melbourne Liquor Distribution Centre, Wodonga Regional Distribution Centre, and Erskine Park Distribution Centre are also expected to reopen soon. The supermarket has stated that all four sites will be up and running at full capacity as quickly as possible. The employees at these sites will soon vote on the new deals.
The recent industrial action had a significant impact on the supply of products in Woolworths stores across Victoria, ACT, and parts of NSW. With the holiday season just around the corner, CEO Amanda Bardwell expressed the company's focus on restocking the empty shelves that customers have faced in the past two weeks. She added that it might take some time for the stores to look their best again, but they are working hard to ramp up the supply chain and get products to the stores where they are needed the most.
The United Workers Union clarified that the primary reason for the strike was to address workers' concerns with Woolworths Framework, a performance management program that monitors pick rates at warehouses. The spokesperson mentioned that a new clause will be added to workplace agreements, ensuring that workers will not face disciplinary action for the speed at which they work. Additionally, the workers have also received above-inflation increases across all sites to help them cope with the rising cost of living.
The union proudly announced that the warehouse workers' efforts have saved Christmas for everyone. Moreover, they have successfully challenged one of the most significant threats to worker safety and well-being in the age of AI and surveillance at work. The spokesperson also acknowledged the workers' sacrifices during the 17-day strike and how their determination has led to this victory.
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