The Cleaners and Allied Independent Workers Union (CAIWU) Raises Concerns Over Unfair Reduction in Break Time Pay at Richemont - YNAP Charlton.

[London, Dec 14th, 2023] — The Cleaners and Allied Independent Workers Union (CAIWU) has officially notified of a trade dispute concerning the unjust reduction in break time pay for its members at Richemont - YNAP Charlton, 932 Woolwich Road, initiating a member ballot in line with potential industrial action.

The allegations come to light regarding claims that the company implemented discriminatory measures by requesting the reduction of wages for a workforce of cleaners that represents, in its entirety, an immigrant background.

The glamour of the luxury fashion world often masks the hardships of those behind the scenes. While the group behind YNAP boasts about reaching 24 million monthly unique visitors, it is hiding behind outsourcing—exemplified by Mitie's involvement—and has requested wage cuts below the Living Wage for cleaners at the premises, even resorting to threats of termination of employment.

Alberto Durango, General Secretary of CAIWU, has expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of transparency in the consultation process. The dispute arises from a proposed reduction in break time pay, a matter that CAIWU argues was not adequately handled in line with UK employment law. The demands are clear: No wage cuts - Maintain the contractual condition of a half-hour paid break and Fair Pay - Rectify Mitie's decision to cut wages below the Living Wage immediately.

As the festive season and winter approach, and the cost of living crisis deepens, it is disappointing that a company with a valuation of hundreds of millions of pounds allows hardworking cleaners to face unjust wage cuts. The call is direct to NET-A-PORTER to reconsider its stance and uphold fairness and dignity for all workers.

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Note to editors:
CAIWU is a representative trade union for cleaners and allied independent workers, advocating for fair labor practices and workers' rights. For more information, visit www.caiwu.org.uk.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Ana Aguirre
Communications
Cleaners and Allied Independent Workers Union
c/o 88 Fleet Street, London EC4Y 1DH
Tel: 075 900 98084 / 079 045 52106
Email: communications@caiwu.org.uk