Woolworths Workers Down Tools in Nationwide Strike
A wave of industrial action swept across Aotearoa on today as thousands of Woolworths supermarket employees walked off the job for a two-hour strike. The strike, organized by FIRST Union, saw workers from over 190 supermarkets nationwide unite in their demand for better wages and working conditions.
The employees, who are seeking a living wage of $27.80 an hour, also expressed concerns over inadequate staffing levels and insufficient security measures. The strike, which began at today, saw workers gather outside their stores, holding signs and chanting slogans, highlighting their dissatisfaction with the current working environment.
The strike comes after months of negotiations between FIRST Union and Woolworths, with both parties failing to reach a mutually agreeable outcome. The company has offered a pay increase, but employees feel it falls short of addressing their concerns and fails to provide a living wage.
The strike has caused significant disruption to shoppers across the country, with many stores experiencing reduced staffing levels or forced closures. While Woolworths has released a statement expressing their commitment to working with the union to reach a fair agreement, the company has not yet indicated whether they are willing to meet the workers’ demands.
The strike is expected to continue until a resolution is reached, with the workers determined to secure a fair deal that addresses their concerns and ensures a more equitable and sustainable working environment.
