More than 100 employees from two of Australia’s prominent book retailers are set to go on strike tomorrow, a move that could impact the bustling Christmas shopping season.
Workers from Harry Hartog and Berkelouw Books, represented by the Retail and Fast Food Workers Union (RAFFWU), plan to commence a five-day strike beginning tomorrow, continuing through to Wednesday, December 24.
This industrial action is expected to affect operations across all Harry Hartog and Berkelouw Books locations.
RAFFWU delegate Ally Bodnaruk highlighted the challenges faced by staff, stating, “We can’t continue under this outdated agreement while juggling multiple jobs just to make ends meet and dealing with ongoing financial stress.”
“While we may be passionate about books, that passion doesn’t cover the rent. Our goals are to secure stable employment, receive fair treatment, and earn a living wage,” Bodnaruk added.
Despite six bargaining sessions over a span of three months, the parties have not yet reached a new agreement.
RAFFWU members have already instituted a ban on restocking shelves and receiving deliveries in response to the failed negotiations.
Harry Hartog and Berkelouw Books reacted by issuing workers with unilateral wage cuts of 37.77 per cent for participating in the bans, per the RAFFWU.
“These workers aren’t asking for the world, they want job security, a living wage with penalty rates, and protections against unfair treatment,” Kakogiannis said.
“These are basic rights that all workers deserve.”
He called on Harry Hartog and Berkelouw Books to “stop being recalcitrant” and come to the table with a fair offer.
Harry Hartog operates 15 stores across the ACT, NSW, Queensland and South Australia.
Berkelouw Books operates out of fewer than 10 locations in NSW and Queensland.
