Retail trade union Usdaw held the first annual National Retail Workers’ Day on Saturday (15 July) to highlight the value of retail workers in our shops and communities.
The day saw Usdaw activists hold regional events in stores and shopping centres asking the public to show their support for shopworkers and share the message that ‘retail workers are at the heart of our communities’.
Paddy Lillis, Usdaw General Secretary, said: “This day of appreciation adds to our year-round campaigning for the government to deliver improved workers’ rights and negotiating with employers for better terms and conditions.”
He added: “The retail sector continues to be of fundamental importance to the UK economy and society as a whole. Despite this, retail jobs do not reflect their true value and significance.
“It is clear that more needs to be done by both employers and government to help shape the future of retail work and to ensure retail jobs provide people with the decent pay and hours they both need and deserve. In addition to decent pay and hours, staff should feel safe and valued at work.”
Did you get involved in National Retail Workers’ Day? Email lwells@55north.com
