Around 100 distribution workers at luxury fashion retailer Net-a-Porter are expected to stage a two-day strike on 20 and 21 May, in a dispute over pay and the company’s alleged failure to fully implement the London Living Wage for its lowest-paid staff.
The industrial action is set to affect operations at the company’s warehouse, with union representatives warning of significant disruption to deliveries. The walkout follows claims that management did not honour earlier commitments regarding wage levels, leaving staff frustrated over pay conditions.
Workers say they were previously given assurances that they would be brought in line with the London Living Wage, but that this promise has not been properly delivered. The dispute has escalated after talks reportedly failed to produce an acceptable offer.
The GMB union, which represents many of the affected employees, says industrial action is a last resort. Regional organiser Craig Prickett described the situation as a “cry for help,” adding that members would prefer a negotiated settlement and are willing to call off the strike if the company returns with a revised proposal that meets its earlier commitments.
Union representatives also claim that some staff have felt under pressure for participating in lawful union activity in the lead-up to the action.
Net-a-Porter, known for its high-end luxury fashion offering—where some items can cost well into six figures—has not publicly resolved the dispute, and the strike is expected to put pressure on its distribution network during the two-day period.