Hundreds of union workers are protesting nationally at Aldi stores and distribution centres today in response to what they say are dangerous practices in the supermarket’s transport supply chain.
The action coincides with the expiry of hundreds of Enterprise Agreements across road transport, the Transport Workers’ Union said.
The union alleges that its investigations at one of Aldi’s supply chain companies found vehicles not being properly maintained as well as cases of potential underpayments, including workers being employed full-time but only paid if there was enough work.
“Throughout Aldi’s transport supply chain there are shocking tales of injuries, dangerous vehicle standards, underpayments and pressure to rush,” claimed TWU National Secretary Michael Kaine.
“Aldi has still failed to commit to a charter to address these issues riddled throughout the transport companies it uses to move its goods.”
Aldi has denied allegations of safety concerns from the union.
“Aldi is committed to safety, fair pay and excellent working conditions throughout our entire supply chain,” a spokesperson said in a statement.
“We take our responsibilities across our supply chain very seriously, meeting and exceeding our obligations under all relevant regulations. We categorically reject any allegations by the TWU that suggest otherwise.”