|
|
 |
Arena Magazine Issue 04 |
 |
21st century at new Sainsbury depot
One of the biggest automated distribution centres in Europe is well on its way to becoming fully operational by 2004, bringing with it the potential for more than 1,000 members at the site.
The Sainsbury depot at Waltham Point in Essex, the size of 10 football pitches, forms part of the restructuring of the company's entire distribution network.
The change has meant the phased closure of other depots in the supply chain and major upheaval for some of the workforce. Convenor Geoff Page has been at the heart of the ongoing negotiations. "It's been a massive exercise," he said. "We've worked closely with the management, particularly centre manager Dave Martin, and the shop stewards team is now looking to the future. Recruitment is going well and we're signing up the vast majority of new staff."
The depot currently employs around 450 staff and, when fully operational, will employ upwards of 1,100. It will also service more than 80 stores and handle 2.6 million cases a week.
Deputy General Secretary John Hannett was impressed with the scale of the operation and the union's organisation when he visited the site. "A fantastic set up," he said. "I know our reps and the management team have developed a partnership approach to working, which I'm convinced has helped them to work through this huge reorganisation. It's a credit to all concerned.
"The futuristic set up is matched by a very progressive relationship between Usdaw and the company's management team, which has worked remarkably well. This is a great example of how, when both sides work together, change and upheaval can be well managed and beneficial to all concerned."
 Printer Friendly Page  Email to a Friend
|
|
