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Usdaw and Sainsbury’s have signed an improved national agreement, which heralds a new era in employment relations.

National Officer Pauline Foulkes is delighted with the developments. “Usdaw will add value to the decision making process at the company,” she said. “It ensures we will work faster simpler together.”

Good conditions for union work

The improved agreement, Getting it Right, includes: Automatic trade union recognition, more union reps per store from a minimum of two to a maximum of four depending on the store’s size and induction facilities for new starters prior to the store opening, improvements to the regional and national consultative structures, improved training and development facilities for union reps, and the opportunity to influence improvements to pay and benefits.

“The new agreement has been a long time coming, but has been well worth the wait,” said Pauline Foulkes. “This is a positive step forward in the right direction. These developments are in recognition of the hard work and commitment that past and present lay reps have put in. A lot of people have played a small part in a large team in their efforts to secure these improvements. “We’ve always enjoyed a good working relationship with Sainsbury’s and the improved agreement will ensure we continue to work together in a constructive manner for many years to come.”

Hannett says USDAW will increase membership

Deputy General Secretary John Hannett welcomed the changes. “This is a significant step forward and provides a sound foundation on which to continue working together in a spirit of co-operation,” he said.

“As the Sainsbury’s business continues to grow, Usdaw will play its part in that expansion and at the same time increasing our membership and influence.”