Community rallies around Pak n Save workers

Community rallies around Pak n Save workers

Hastings Pak n’ Save workers are picketing their store once again as the owner refuses to listen to their concerns.

More than 50 floor staff, butchers, deli workers and bakers will be handing out flyers and speaking to the public about their plight with the owner who refuses to budge on pay and is treating union members like secondary citizens. The picket begins outside the store at midday tomorrow (Saturday 30th June).

FIRST Union organiser Mike McNab says the company is refusing to give workers a pay rise and bargaining has broken down on multiple occasions.

“The owner is digging in, he won’t budge on pay, and is pushing out bargaining dates as far as he can. He trespassed me from the store 2 days ago to try to undermine the union, despite the fact it’s illegal.”

He says the community is disgusted at the owners’ treatment of workers.

“Our social media pages are filled with the community voicing their frustration at how staff are being treated. I’ve been told that Pak n’ Save Napier has seen an increase in profits because people are doing their shopping at that store instead – they’re really angry.”

The owner says he’s tired of ‘giving’ but Mr McNab says while employees are struggling to pay bills they aren’t asking for charity, they’re asking for fair pay for a fair day’s work.

“Meanwhile, if his Instagram account is anything to go by, he’s living a luxurious lifestyle smoking cigars and sipping expensive champagne on tropical islands. It’s not like the store isn’t doing well.”

He says the store-owner needs to recognise the value of its workers, and pay them what they’re worth.

“These jobs require skill, these workers are proficient at their jobs, and they often work very long hours.”

He points out that the action is in no way directed at Tamatea or Napier Pak n Saves in the region.

“At Hastings workers are paid poverty wages, and well below the Living Wage, the owner seems to want to be a minimum wage employer.”

Mr McNab adds it’s an ethical conundrum the owner can no longer ignore.

“Workers need a pay rise in the face of increased petrol and living costs, and to meet the costs associated with bringing up a family.”

ENDS

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