Harrods faces a significant strike by hundreds of its employees during the Christmas season over pay issues.
- The industrial action is scheduled for 19 December, following a vote by United Voices of the World union members.
- The dispute highlights concerns over low pay, staff shortages, and excessive workload among Harrods staff.
- Management’s refusal to engage constructively with workers has intensified dissatisfaction.
- Employees are particularly frustrated by the absence of a Christmas bonus amid substantial company profits.
Harrods employees have voted overwhelmingly to initiate strike action during the crucial Christmas period, a decision driven by significant grievances over pay and working conditions. Members of the United Voices of the World (UVW) union, representing various departments including retail, restaurant, kitchen, and cleaning, have expressed their dissatisfaction through a 95% vote in favour of striking on 19 December. This action comes amidst allegations of insufficient wage increases, substantial staff shortages, and increasing workloads that have left employees struggling.
The discord has been exacerbated by what workers perceive as management’s refusal to address their issues adequately through meaningful discussions with UVW. Reports indicate that despite repeated attempts to negotiate, Harrods’ management has not engaged satisfactorily, compelling workers to consider drastic measures to have their voices heard.
Adding to the workers’ indignation is the news of the significant financial gains enjoyed by Harrods’ management. Workers have cited the lack of a promised Christmas bonus, despite the £180 million dividends paid to the owners in the preceding year, and the £2.1 million salary received by the managing director, as factors that intensify their resolve.
Union demands are clear, encompassing not only financial recompense but also structural changes within the organisation. They are advocating for an annual bonus, pay increments exceeding the Retail Price Index inflation rate, and increased staffing levels across departments. Of particular concern is the requirement imposed on part-time cleaners to endure nine consecutive working days, as well as the lack of transparency regarding service charge distributions. Restaurant and kitchen staff are also urging for the provision of a daily meal allowance.
Alice Howick, a Harrods waiter and UVW member, succinctly articulated the grievances by saying, “As one of the world’s leading luxury department stores, Harrods should be setting the standard for retail and hospitality workers.” Howick pointed out that employees are compensated merely at the living wage level and highlighted the absence of what she views as essential benefits, such as a food allowance and the deferred Christmas bonus.
A spokesperson from Harrods emphasized that the striking employees are a small fraction of the workforce—176 out of the total—and assured that contingency plans were in place to prevent disruption. The spokesperson reiterated Harrods’ commitment to resolving concerns directly with employees and continuing its relationship with recognised unions.
The looming strike is a reflection of the deep-seated tensions between Harrods’ management and its workforce, underscoring the urgent need for resolution.
