Sainsbury's workers to protest over pay at AGM

Workers from Sainsbury's stores will stage a protest outside the firm's annual general meeting today in a row over pay.

Unite said thousands of its members at the supermarket giant were being offered a below-inflation rise this year despite the "massive profits" the company makes.

National officer Jennie Formby said: "The Sainsbury's workforce deserve a fair pay rise as their employer continues to profit from their hard work. The protest today reflects the anger that the employees feel about the prospect of yet another below-inflation pay deal, which in the current economic climate results in a pay cut for them.

"The possibility that some 12,000 workers could receive a pay cut is beyond comprehension. The workers protesting outside the annual general meeting are questioning why it is that, while the company continues to enjoy record sales and the chief executive receives a bumper bonus, the workforce are being told to accept a reduction in their living conditions, as their already low pay is further squeezed.

"It is only right that the dedicated workforce, many of which are female and work part-time for family reasons, who form the backbone of this company, are given a fair pay settlement which reflects the outstanding performance of Sainsbury's."

The workers will leaflet shareholders as they arrive for the meeting in Central London.