Employees at Harrods are preparing to strike during critical holiday shopping days due to unresolved pay and working conditions issues.
- The United Voices of the World union disclosed that workers would strike if Christmas bonuses and better working conditions were not provided.
- The strike, backed by 95% of the staff, is planned for December 21, 22, and 26, affecting pre-Christmas sales and Boxing Day activities.
- A significant factor driving the strike is the management’s refusal to engage with the union or acknowledge their demands.
- Discontent has grown as employees face stagnant wages amidst substantial payouts to executives and owners.
Employees at Harrods are planning strike action during key holiday dates, including December 21, 22, and 26, due to ongoing disputes over pay and working conditions. According to the United Voices of the World (UVW) union, the staff are demanding a Christmas bonus and improved working conditions. The union reported that 95% of its members voted in favour of the strike, indicating strong support among staff.
The action comes after Harrods’ management allegedly refused to recognise or negotiate with the union regarding these issues. Employees have expressed frustrations over stagnant wages, particularly in light of substantial dividends and executive salaries. Last year, the company’s owners received £180 million in dividends, while the managing director earned a £2.1 million salary.
Workers are particularly concerned about low pay, staff shortages, and excessive workloads. Many have cited the denial of a Christmas bonus as a tipping point for the strike, coupled with grievances over the company’s lack of engagement with their union.
The UVW union has called for an immediate remedy of these issues. They are advocating for an above-inflation pay rise and a new Christmas bonus starting at £500. Additionally, employees are pressing for an end to mandatory bank holiday work for cleaners and improved transparency regarding service charges in stores and restaurants.
Harrods, while acknowledging the contributions of its employees, has stated its commitment to addressing these concerns through direct communication with staff and existing recognised unions. The organisation aims to maintain constructive relationships but has yet to meet the demands put forward by the UVW union.
The planned strikes at Harrods highlight growing employee dissatisfaction over pay and conditions during a crucial trading period.
