Supplies of alcohol across Australia in the lead-up to Christmas could be disrupted by looming warehouse workers’ strikes.
Stocks from liquor retailers, including BWS and Dan Murphy’s, may be impacted when members of the United Workers Union (UWU) walk off the job next week over a dispute about pay and conditions.
The planned industrial action comes after more than 1500 workers held a one-hour stoppage this week at four Woolworths distribution centres in Victoria and New South Wales.
Union members then voted to take further indefinite work stoppages some time next week, with potential impacts for pubs and bottle shops.
A Woolworths liquor distribution centre in Laverton, western Melbourne, supplies about 800,000 cases of beer, wine and spirits every week to 500 liquor outlets.
A spokesperson for Endeavour Group, the owner of Dan Murphy’s and BWS, said any industrial action would not cause “major impacts” on supplies.
“Contrary to statements made, we would like to reassure our customers that we do not foresee any major impacts to stock availability in stores over the festive season.
“We are committed to ensuring our customers have access to the products they love over the busy festive period ahead.”
