Four Asda stores in the south of England could face further industrial action in 2024 following a recent strike vote by staff at the Gosport store.
The GMB trade union revealed employees at the Gosport superstore in Hampshire would walk out from January 12 to January 28.
Subsequently, three other unnamed stores intend to take similar action.
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Workers at the Gosport store raised concerns about health and safety, wages, and a perceived “toxic” work culture.
The GMB presented a dossier containing 21 issues to Asda, as reported by The Sunday Times.
“We take health and safety and colleague wellbeing very seriously”
Among the concerns were allegations that fire safety exits were obstructed by rubbish and stock.
The union says this compromises safety and that accidents and workplace incidents were not being taken seriously.
GMB regional organiser in the south of England Nicky Nixon said: “There are issues constantly being reported to us at Asda stores, it’s just that Gosport was the first store willing to do something about it.
“Members at four other stores are saying ‘we want to do what they’re doing’.”
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The GMB’s southern branch had engaged with the supermarket multiple times regarding problems at the Gosport site before deciding to ballot members for a strike.
An Asda spokesman said: “We take health and safety and colleague wellbeing very seriously and have established processes in place for colleagues to raise any concerns.
“We have advised representatives of the GMB of the actions we have taken and will continue to engage with representatives at the Gosport store to resolve their concerns.”
He continued: “While any action that has the potential to cause disruption for colleagues and customers is unwelcome, we are confident that we can keep this to a minimum.
“We are unaware of other stores wishing to take part in any industrial action.”
