While many workers have been furloughed during the pandemic, warehouse staff have been working harder than ever. Demand for online shopping has led to ever-expanding warehouse operations, with Amazon recently announcing that it is increasing its UK workforce by a third with 10,000 new warehouse employees. But a growth in demand hasn’t been reflected in improved working conditions.
Rowan Chalmers worked as a warehouse operative for fashion retailer Pretty Little Thing. He was employed and paid by the agency PMP Recruitment.
Pretty Little Thing is owned by the Boohoo Group and known for its celebrity partnerships with Kourtney Kardashian and girl band Little Mix. But behind the scenes, Chalmers had not been paid – he was owed for two shifts and holiday pay. He informed management at the warehouse and the agency but nothing was done. To make things worse, his temporary contract came to an end.
