Banana importer and supermarket supplier SH Pratt has invited the GMB trade union to its Luton operation following a BBC radio exposé in May of poor working conditions.

“We had a very successful meeting with Pratts management on July 10 and we are now hoping to help them out with health and safety,” said Rose Conroy of the union. “The management was very helpful and we are now going in and asking the workforce if they want us to represent them, this will be ongoing throughout the summer.”

Pratt’s md Robert Wells told freshinfo: “SH Pratt takes the allegations, made during a radio news programme that aired in May, extremely seriously. Whilst there were inaccuracies in the original broadcast, a thorough internal review identified a number of steps that could be taken to further enhance worker terms and conditions.

“These have largely been implemented, the speed of which clearly demonstrates Pratt’s commitment to its workers and their welfare. As part of this process Pratts has been in close contact with the GMB and had a successful initial meeting.

“Further meetings are planned and Pratts is entirely supportive of any staff member who wishes to join the GMB.”

Pratts remains committed to providing a high quality work environment and to delivering superior service to its customers. Its workers are key to its continued success and their welfare is Pratts’ number one concern.”

The union was represented at the meeting by Warren Kenny. “GMB has over 100 years experience in looking after the rights of workers and providing guidance to company managements on how to pay staff properly and to provide a safe working environment,” said Kenny. “Good pay and conditions get the best from workers and that is what every employer strives for.”

Topics