GMB Trade Union has begun balloting Asda distribution workers over a new pay offer.

Nearly 8,000 GMB members working in Asda warehouses are expected to vote on whether to accept a revised pay offer from the supermarket. The ballot opened on 31st January and closes on Monday 14th February.

Following an offer made by the retailer in December, 94% of warehouse and clerical workers and LGV drivers voted in favour of strike action. Asda subsequently replied with the revised pay offer.

ASDA and GMB are also currently locked in a long-running equal pay claim on behalf of 40,000 Asda workers. The dispute concerns whether the shop floor workforce is to receive equal pay to that of those in the distribution centre.

An Asda spokesperson said: “We recognise the vital role our logistics colleagues have played throughout the pandemic to keep our stores well-stocked and support the business ‒ and have made a fair, competitive and sustainable pay offer which recognises rising inflation. We are hopeful they will vote in favour of this offer in the ballot.”