"Thousands of Asda workers told to sign "punitive" new contracts or face the sack", 5 August 2019

Thousands of Asda workers are set to protest over a wave of new contract changes that could leave many employees worse off…

…The contract has previously been voluntary…however GMB union members now say they are being forced into signing the new deal. Under the terms, bank holidays will be made compulsory while paid breaks will be scrapped in exchange for a new £9 an hour basic rate. Staff could also be asked to agree to work more flexible times and different departments in their store…

…However, according to documents seen by the Daily Record, Asda is now threatening to terminate the employment of those who turn down the revised terms…

...Union GMB described the move as ‘punitive’…” The new contract…introduces an any time, any place, anywhere culture which risks a hugely damaging impact on the predominately part time, low paid, female workforce…”

...The grocer admitted around 5% of workers would be worse off under the changes but said 'transitional payments' would be in place…for up to 18 months. Speaking on the proposed changes…an Asda spokesman told Mirror Money..."...We are continuing to talk to our colleagues about this change and to understand what it might mean for their individual circumstances.”