Shoprite distribution workers on strike

WORKERS at a distribution centre owned by Africa’s largest food retailer‚ Shoprite‚ have downed tools in protest over poor pay and outsourcing.

The Centurion facility‚ near Pretoria‚ is the continent’s largest distribution centre, serving as the central processing point for about 90% of products delivered to stores in Gauteng and beyond.

More than 1 100 suppliers deliver their products to the centre‚ where they are stored‚ collated and then distributed to retail stores.

The General Industries Workers Union (Giwusa) said the strike had begun on Monday with more than 90% of the 1 000-strong workforce joining.

Giwusa official Clarence Debeila said they wanted an end to outsourcing and a minimum wage of R10 000.

Shoprite did not respond to requests for comment.