PRESS ALERT: Woolworths distribution centre shuts down amidst strike

Nothing is going in and nothing is getting out at one of Woolworth’s largest distributions centres. Entrances have been blocked off, operations have shut down and a long line of Woolworths delivery trucks can be seen outside the Woolworths Distribution Centre in Pretoria (289 Oilivenhoutbosch Ave, Louwlardia, Pretoria, Gauteng).

Over 700 workers at the Woolworths Distribution Centre are currently engaged in a legal and protected labour strike since last Monday 12 October.

Woolworths workers are on strike demanding fair pay, affordable medical aid, education allowances, housing allowances as well as better working conditions. Union leaders have informed BDS SA that Woolworths workers are currently earning at least 200% less than what workers at comparable retailers/companies are earning (workers at Woolworths Distribution Centre currently earn approximately R2800 - R3600).

Woolworths claims that it is a responsible company yet it is exploiting workers. Woolworths claims that it sources ethically yet it trades with Apartheid Israel. Woolworths must align its so-called commitments to workers, sourcing, the environment, education etc. to actual policy and practice. Woolworths must move beyond PR exercises and empty words.

Treating workers fairly and ending trade with Apartheid Israel can genuinely put Woolworths, if it is really interested, on a good business journey. Until then we #BoycottWoolworths and support the #WoolworthsStrike!