Unions in turf war at web firm’s warehouse

A UNION turf war will reach boiling point on Friday as workers represented by one organisation at internet shopping giant ASOS’s Barnsley warehouse step out to campaign against a rival union.

The dispute between the GMB and Community Union dates back to 2017, when ASOS and logistics firm XPO, who manage the site, signed a recognition deal with Community. At the time, it had been campaigning on behalf of hundreds of members of site to be recognised, whereas Community, it claims, had just four members.

The latest action comes after Community was ordered to pay the GMB a £25,000 fine after the TUC Disputes Committee ruled that Community had “clearly and significantly breached” principle three of the TUC’s code governing disputes, which prevents another union undermining established unions or those engaged in organising activity.

GMB regional secretary Neil Derrick, said: “GMB is the true voice for ASOS workers and be assured we’ll be stepping up our battle to win dignity and respect here in Barnsley. Workers at ASOS have been crying out for union representation of their choice, not of their bosses’ – and that’s what they’re getting with GMB every day.”

A spokesperson for Community slammed the GMB for “hypocrisy”, saying it had, over the last year, also been rapped by the TUC for similar code breaches, including one which led to a £15,000 payout to Community. He added: “Community remains prepared to work with the GMB in good faith to improve union relations and strengthen the labour movement.”