After recognising the two trade unions that represent its workers for 30 years, Bidfood said it made the move because the Collective Bargaining Unit is no longer “reflective of the interests of the majority of our employees”.
Both Unite and GMB reacted angrily to the decision, with GMB activists joined by Vince on 14 February for an event at one of the firm’s depots in Harlow.
Both trade unions are still discussing next steps, which could include launching strike action.
Bidfood is a foodservice wholesaler that supplies prisons, universities, colleges, hospitals and schools across the UK.
‘Deeply concerning’
“I was pleased to meet the union activists and members resisting derecognition, and to lend my voice to this protest,” said Vince, who became last year following the general election.
“It is deeply concerning that loyal, hardworking Bidfood staff could be at risk of having their contracts ripped up.
“When trade unions and companies work together to improve terms and conditions, everyone benefits.
“I would urge Bidfood to reinstate its recognition deal with GMB and Unite and ensure its workers remain protected.”
Meanwhile, GMB regional organiser Steve Garelick said the Bidfood workers deserved the security and protection that comes with being part of a recognised union.
“GMB has worked closely with Bidfood over the last thirty years to improve conditions for workers,” he continued.
“Bidfood ended that cooperation without notice, leaving our members vulnerable to the possible threat of fire and rehire. Our members work hard to ensure local schools and hospitals are supplied with the food they need.”
‘Employee forums’
With the unions no longer recognised, Bidfood said last month that it will communicate with workers via its employee engagement forums moving forward.
“We believe [the forums] represent a wider range of our employees’ views across all sites, and are a more agile, effective and collaborative way to listen, discuss and resolve matters that are important to our employees, in real time,” a spokesperson for Bidfood explained.
“We really value our people and pride ourselves on being a people business. We take the importance of listening to and supporting them incredibly seriously, and we value contributions and feedback from all of our employees. We remain committed to ensuring an open approach to discussing and tackling issues and wholeheartedly believe this is a positive step for our business and our people.”
