Clarks UK are attempting to fire and rehire their workforce on less favourable terms and conditions. The company have pushed for the majority of their employees to accept far-reaching reduced conditions, with everything from a reduction in hourly wage, cuts to sick pay, removal of paid breaks and a reduction in overtime rates.
We ask Clarks to call off the cuts to terms and conditions and return to the table. We are ready and waiting to enter into productive discussions to resolve this dispute.
Why is this important?
Clarks is a staple brand on the British high street, with a history dating back over a century. Many children will be able to remember being taken to Clarks for their school shoes.
Their customers have frequently rewarded them with loyalty. So too have their workforce - accepting no pay rises for some years. The workers most adversely impacted by these changes are those who have been employees for decades, sticking with the company through thick and thin, stepping up in the last year during the challenging pandemic period.
Fire-and-rehire is no way to thank employees or your customers. The workers at Clarks deserve better.
