Workers facing brewers’ droop thanks to Draconian working conditions, says union.

GMB, the union for DHL workers, says trouble is brewing for Carlsberg’s Christmas beer deliveries following a dispute over pay and conditions.

DHL workers, who deal with deliveries from Carlsberg’s Leeds depot, are facing an uncertain future – and GMB is calling on the company to address the draconian working conditions placed upon their workforce.

DHL Tradeteam recently won the contract for Carlsberg’s secondary logistics and, following the closure of several Carlsberg's UK depots, Leeds has seen unprecedented levels of reductions to its once strong workforce.

This has led to excessive workloads for the remaining DHL lorry drivers, dray and warehouse staff.

A new contract imposed by DHL has seen major changes to working hours and pay in what amounts to a clear breach of previously agreed terms.

The changes are having a huge impact on the health, safety and welfare of GMB members.

GMB is holding talks with senior DHL management in Leeds this week.

With other depots holding similar talks, GMB hopes DHL will listen to legitimate concerns about realistic expectations for deliveries - without putting profit before its workers.

However, if DHL doesn’t take this window of opportunity, GMB will consult with its members with an expected mandate for an industrial action ballot.

Ben Kirkham, GMB Organiser, said:

“The safety of our members is something that cannot be ignored.

“It is paramount that DHL have a duty of care to our members who cannot continue to work under this pressure.

 “These draconian conditions are having an impact on their health and safety - paid driver rest breaks have been removed and working hours.

“On top of all this, the expected Christmas closure of the subsidised canteen will leave a bitter taste to the end of an already unhappy year.

“Unless a solution can be reached over the new contract then GMB will consult with members on a ballot for industrial action with a view to taking strike action or action short of a strike in the run-up to Christmas.”

ENDS

Contact: Contact Ben Kirkham, GMB Organiser, on 07958 156841 or GMB Press Office on 07958 156846 or at [email protected]