GMB union slams Asda as survey finds many store workers and delivery drivers suffering abuse and violence

Asda workers have been stabbed, punched and threatened with syringes, according to a survey by GMB which shows one in three has been attacked at work. 

GMB is a recognised union in Asda stores and warehouses, with over 6,000 members.

In its poll of almost 1,000 Asda staff, workers revealed how they had been spat at, suffered broken bones, been hit with bottles and had death threats against them and their children. 

Delivery drivers have been chased by people in cars and been confronted by customers in the nude, while store workers have had watermelons and joints of gammon thrown at them.

In total, 339 people (35%) said they had been a victim of verbal or physical violence whilst carrying out their job role. 

The results of the survey also saw 58% of respondents said they had suffered injury or illness at work 

Nadine Houghton, GMB National Officer, says: “These incidents are horrifying – no one should have suffer this kind of abuse and violence at work.”

An Asda spokesperson told RTIH: “Unfortunately, like all retailers we have seen an increase and violence and aggression towards our colleagues during the last few years.”

“The safety of our colleagues is a primary concern, which is why we have invested over £30 million during the last three years to upgrade the CCTV systems in stores.”

“We have also provided colleagues with body worn cameras, hired extra security guards in certain stores and amended store opening times when required.”

They added: “We work with all of our colleague representatives in the important area of colleague security and also back calls for violence or abuse against retail workers to be made a standalone criminal offence in all parts of the UK and hope this is a priority for any incoming government.”