Union promise to resolve row

GMB responded after its handling of negotiations with Asda-Walmart over the closure of the Marus Bridge distribution centre were criticised.

Staff remaining at the depot recently claimed they had to move to a new centre at Warrington or leave the company with nothing.

One employee claimed GMB had not offered enough support to the staff but the union has now reassured residents it is doing all it can to resolve the situation.

A spokesman said: “GMB has worked tirelessly on behalf of its members to secure employment for its members within at the new automated distribution centre at Burtonwood.

“I would like to thank our members who helped persuade Asda to commit to building their flagship distribution centre on the omega site at Burtonwood when faced with the reality that Asda had identified two other potential sites.

“While recognising it is not always easy moving location and adapting to new working practices GMB are committed to representing our members and supporting the stewards’ committee by any means we can.

“We should not forget members, who for various reason are not able to make the transfer to the new depot. GMB are in dialogue with management and are hopeful we will be able to reach an amicable resolutions on behalf of our members.”

Wigan MP Lisa Nandy has also expressed concern that workers who have been at the Wheatlea Industrial Centre for more than a decade may not get any sort of severance package.

GMB previously negotiated with Asda-Walmart on depot workers’ behalf to ensure the distribution centre jobs remained in the North West rather than being transferred to a site in Staffordshire.