B&Q could face disruption at some of its stores after its delivery drivers voted for strike action in a dispute over pay.
More than one hundred employees at a GXO distribution centre in Swindon, which is contracted by the DIY retailer, have voted to take industrial action.
Shopworker union Usdaw said the vote was conducted after the company’s offer of 5.25% pay increase, with some investment in an attendance bonus and a damage bonus, was rejected.
The union warned the strike action during the week beginning March 18 will “disrupt supplies to B&Q stores”.
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However, GXO deny claims that industrial action will result in disruption to the retailers stores and a spokesperson told Retail Gazette: “We are currently in process with ACAS and Usdaw and have already made an enhanced offer as part of these negotiations.
“We are disappointed that this enhanced offer has not been communicated to our colleagues and we will continue to work with ACAS and Usdaw to find a resolution.”
Usdaw regional secretary Rab Donnelly said: “Our members at GXO Swindon voted to reject the company’s offer of 5.25% and we remain disappointed that we have been unable to reach a resolution the dispute.
“These ballot results clearly demonstrate that the current offer is unacceptable to our members. In the midst of a cost of living crisis and the raging inflation of the last year, this offer amounts to a real terms pay cut.
“We have further discussions planned with the company under the auspices of ACAS and remain open to negotiation. The company need to improve the offer that is on the table.
“Any industrial action will inevitably disrupt supplies to B&Q stores in the region and we urge managers to do the right and reasonable thing and make an offer that is acceptable to members in order to resolve the dispute.”
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