Woolworths stores have limited stock due to worker strikes and distribution centers shutting down.

As the holiday season approaches, many Woolworths stores are facing a major problem - their shelves are nearly empty and their fridges are running low on stock. This is due to strikes that have forced the closure of five distribution centres, leaving the supermarket giant struggling to keep up with demand. The distribution workers, who have been on strike for 10 days now, are demanding better pay and working conditions.

The impact of the strike is being felt by customers who are frustrated by the lack of stock in the stores. One shopper expressed their disappointment, saying, "We don't want to miss out on our favorite Christmas treats that we normally find at Woolworths." Another customer pointed out the obvious, saying, "Where is all the stock? There's none left." And for some, the inconvenience is leading them to shop at competitor Coles instead. As a third customer put it, "If we can't find what we need at Woolworths, we'll just have to go to Coles and get it there."

The United Workers Union (UWU), which represents the striking workers, has warned that the situation will only get worse if a deal is not reached soon. Andrew Giles, a spokesperson for UWU, emphasized the impact of the strike, stating, "Everyone can see how this is affecting the stores and it will only get worse. But Woolworths has the power to change that. They can do something about it tomorrow."

This strike comes after six months of failed negotiations between the workers and the company. The workers are demanding a pay rise that is above the rate of inflation, with an immediate 25% increase and a further 30% increase over the next two years. They also want Woolworths to reduce their productivity requirements, claiming that they are constantly being monitored and expected to work at 100% performance all the time.

In response to the strike, Woolworths has stated that they are in negotiations with the union and plan to reopen their Dandenong distribution centre in Victoria tomorrow. They claim that their staff are eager to get back to work and provide for their families before Christmas. However, the striking workers have made it clear that they will continue their action until their demands are met. As Giles stated, "Every worker has the right to provide for their family and we will keep fighting for that right."

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