Woolworths Loses $50 Million Amid Worker Strike

Woolworths, Australia's largest supermarket chain, has incurred a $50 million loss in grocery sales due to ongoing industrial action by warehouse workers since November 21. The strikes, led by the United Workers Union (UWU), have resulted in empty shelves across stores in Victoria, New South Wales, and the ACT, as workers demand a 25% pay increase over three years and improved working conditions. Woolworths has filed an application with the Fair Work Commission to halt the strikes, citing safety concerns and disruptions to supply chains, particularly at its Dandenong South distribution center. Negotiations between Woolworths and the UWU are ongoing, with both sides reporting limited progress, and the supermarket anticipates further financial impacts as the holiday season approaches. The UWU's national secretary criticized Woolworths' productivity targets, labeling them unsafe. Woolworths has stated its commitment to resolving the dispute swiftly and has initiated measures to mitigate the disruption to customers.