Asda risks further inflaming relations with the GMB union after it emerged that the supermarket chain plans to recruit managers and other store staff from Poland.
The company is already embroiled in a bitter dispute with the union over worsening industrial relations, non-payment of staff bonuses and allegations of union-busting activity.
Representatives from the retailer plan to visit Poland in May to take part in a recruitment fair to raise awareness of Asda’s brand and the types of jobs available.
Sign up to our weekly round-up of HR news and guidance
Receive the Personnel Today Direct e-newsletter every Wednesday
“Recruiting from Poland is something we are considering, but only for difficult-to-fill vacancies at our stores,” an Asda spokeswoman told Personnel Today.
“We are operating an increasing number of 24-hour stores, so need more night managers to fill the vacancies,” she said.
The GMB said it wants reassurances that jobs will be advertised locally first.