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Arena Magazine 2005 Issue 4 |
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National campaign puts union on its Marks
Fresh from its success in the North West Usdaw has launched a national recruitment campaign at key Marks and Spencer’s stores in the union’s other six divisions. The decision came after hundreds of workers signed up at stores in the North West and many other workers across the UK expressed an interest in joining the union.
It is a timely announcement following reports that the company intends to change the contracts of existing staff to incorporate more weekend working.
"We want M&S to be king of the high street again," said one member. "We want the company to work with Usdaw which I believe would be a win-win situation for all of us.
"I don't want confrontation with my employer, but I do want to be listened to. Staff interact with customers on a daily basis and have a valuable contribution to make.
"We need a genuine consultation process. One where Usdaw is recognised as the legitimate representative of the staff. This way we can work together as a team and make things better for all.
"We are not disloyal members of staff, but we are fed up with the way we've been treated."
John Hannett was delighted with the response and urged all Usdaw members to encourage their friends and relatives who work in M&S to join up. "There are also recruitment drives going on across many of the other big companies," said John. "If we all work hard we can make a big breakthrough."
From North to South M&S staff call Usdaw
Meanwhile in Southampton Marks & Spencer's staff turned out at a meeting to hear national officer John Gorle and local officials explain Usdaw's drive for recognition in the company and how they can help.
"I can't over-emphasise the importance of having members who are willing to recruit their colleagues in the M&S stores," said John. "It was very encouraging to see so many members turn out at the meeting. It takes a lot of courage to put your head above the parapet in these situations. I'm hopeful we can build on this enthusiasm and take the union forward."
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