CLEANER jobs are at risk after supermarket giant Asda announced plans to outsource 3,500 roles.
The decision affects staff who will be transferred to third-party providers Bidvest and NIC Cleaning Services.
Rachelle Wilkins, organiser for the GMB union, said: “This is detestable behaviour from Asda.
“Outsourcing companies have a proven track record of slashing pay terms, conditions and even jobs as soon as they have their feet under the table.”
She added: “Now loyal, hard working cleaning staff will be worried sick about whether their job will still pay the bills or whether the axe will fall on them.”
The union claims Asda previously ruled out further outsourcing back in April, yet announced the changes in August.
Ms Wilkins said: “GMB has called on Asda to halt this process now – at least until the other consultations are finished – and consider what is best for its customers and staff.”
GMB has warned that outsourcing often leads to reduced pay, poorer working conditions and job losses.