Retailers and Christmas shoppers will be the big losers if a planned strike by fuel tanker drivers goes ahead next week, says Business Central.

"The Christmas and summer period is the busiest time of the year for most retailers and so any threat to the supply of products could be very costly for them," says Chief Executive John Milford.

"The planned five-day strike by First Union between 16 December and 20 December is a disproportionate response to their stalled pay and conditions talks, and is designed to inflict maximum pain and disruption on Christmas shoppers and families preparing for the festive season and summer holidays.

"By halting deliveries of fuel to petrol stations, supplies will run short and will potentially make it harder for delivery and logistics companies to replenish the goods that retailers need to keep stocked.

"Running low or even out of stock is serious enough for individual businesses; but the hit on the wider economy could be even more severe.

"Fuel tanker drivers are a highly skilled, highly sought after, and highly paid workforce.

"It’s very concerning that an essential economic enabler such as fuel is being affected by strike action with only two weeks’ notice. In addition, the parties to the dispute have not even concluded mediation process.

"We urge all parties to work hard at finding a solution together so retailers and families can plan their summer with confidence."
ENDS

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