JD Sports expresses ‘concern’ over the Channel 4 expose of working practices
JD Sports has launched an investigation into working practices at its Kingsway distribution centre following a Channel 4 News broadcast last night in which allegations of the mistreatment of workers were made.
Allegations included threats from supervisors that employees would be there and then if they dared to sit down and a so-called ‘three strikes’ policy in which employees can be dismissed after racking up three minor policy infractions; such as possessing a mobile phone, chewing gum, or wearing designer clothes.
In a public statement the business said that while it was ‘deeply disappointed and concerned’ by the scenes depicted it did not believe the report was ‘an accurate reflection of our culture’ – but would do more to ensure existing policy is adhered to.
In its statement the retailer said: “While we maintain that the policies and procedures in place are robust and fair, it is clear that we need to do better in their implementation. In the short term, we intend to retrain all supervisory and security employees at the facility, as a matter of urgency, to ensure that those policies are correctly reflected across the workplace.
“We would like to reiterate that we categorically do not operate a 'strike' policy or system and our workers cannot be fired 'on the spot'; we have a fully outlined disciplinary procedure and appeal process based on the ACAS code of practice.”
JD Sports has vowed to be 'transparent' about any changes made in light of the allegations, similar to the controversy enveloping rival retailer, Sports Direct.