GMB claimed more than 500 members of staff are considering industrial action after the poultry processor’s bosses threatened de-recognition of the trade union.
Rachelle Wilkins, GMB Organiser, said: “We live in uncertain times and a Nando’s shortage during the school holidays is the last thing our already embattled nation needs.
“A cheeky Nando’s is a national past time – for Avara bosses to put this in jeopardy is unforgivable. We’re calling on bosses to get back around the table and end this threat to our members right to a collective voice in bargaining for better pay, terms and conditions.”
Disputing the claims
However, Avara disputed these claims and noted that less than a third of the 500 members of staff were actually represented by the union, which equated to less than 3% of its total workforce.
“These statements are entirely false and risk misleading our employees, customers, and the public,” said an Avara spokesman. “Furthermore, no strike action has been organised and there is no consequent risk to our customers’ supply.
“We remain fully committed to maintaining a constructive and respectful relationship with the GMB. We have a long-standing history of engaging in good-faith discussions with the union and will continue to uphold its obligations under all relevant agreements.”
‘Fact-based discussions’
Avara called on GMB to engage in ‘fact-based discussions’ and refrain from spreading misinformation it claimed could cause unnecessary concern among its employees.
“We remain open to continued dialogue to ensure a productive and transparent working relationship,” the spokesman concluded.
Meanwhile, last week saw workers involved in industrial action at an Oscar Mayer facility in Wrexham begin to vote on continuing the strike into the summer.
According to Unite the Union, around 550 Oscar Mayer employees have been involved in strikes since September 2024 in response to attempts by the firm to “fire and rehire” workers and cut pay by up to £3,000 in the process.
