Morrisons could face disruption to supermarket supplies across the north of England as nearly 500 HGV drivers employed by Eddie Stobart vote on potential strike action.
The drivers, based at Morrisons distribution depots in Wakefield, Stockton-on-Tees and Northwich in Cheshire, are responsible for delivering grocery products to stores across the region. According to Unite, strike action could lead to empty shelves if the dispute is not resolved.
Dispute over agency labour
The union says the dispute centres on Eddie Stobart’s increasing use of agency drivers, which it argues is undermining existing terms and conditions for directly employed staff.
Unite claims that around 40% of drivers at the Stockton and Northwich depots are now agency workers. The union argues that, instead of replacing departing staff with directly employed drivers, the company is gradually shifting towards a workforce on less secure contracts.
Unite also states that agency drivers are excluded from the collective bargaining rights available to permanent staff.
Union warns of supply disruption
The ballot will remain open until 4 June. If drivers vote in favour of industrial action, Morrisons’ supply chain in northern England could be affected, given the role of the depots in distributing a wide range of grocery products.
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Unite general secretary Sharon Graham criticised Eddie Stobart’s approach, describing it as an attempt to weaken pay and employment conditions. The union has said it will support the drivers throughout the dispute.
Call for agreement
Unite regional officer Neil Howells said there was still time to avoid strike action, but warned that this would require Eddie Stobart to reach an agreement with the union.
The dispute places pressure on both Eddie Stobart and Morrisons, as any disruption at distribution level could quickly affect store availability in a highly competitive retail environment.
