Strikes could be on the way amid HGV driver shortages and empty grocery store shelves

Brexit has caused employee shortages across the supply chain, as EU workers leave the UK. 

There are fresh talks of driver strikes amid empty grocery store shelves, as the full effect of Brexit becomes more apparent every day. Several companies are experiencing disruption, including grocery store giants Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, and the Co-op.

In a tweet, Tesco said that the company was facing ongoing issues with its supply chain: “We have deliveries arriving at our stores every day, and while there’s plenty to go around, we are experiencing some disruption due to an industry-wide shortage of HGV drivers.”

Sainsbury’s also issued a statement explaining that it was trying to replenish stock, amid the shortages: “We know there are some challenges with availability in some of our stores due to demand. We’re working to replenish stock as quickly as we can to ensure our customers can get what they need.”

Asda has also said that it is experiencing “availability issues, as a result of the UK-wide haulage problem/driver shortages.”

And now there could be further disruption, as drivers from both Yodel and DHL are in talks regarding a possible strike. However, no action has yet been taken.

A spokesperson for DHL said: “We are disappointed that Unite is referencing the possibility of future industrial action at our Dartford depot. Further pay talks are scheduled, where we are confident of reaching a satisfactory outcome for both parties.”

A Yodel spokesperson added: “We are disappointed by the GMB’s ballot plans having been proactive in conversations with the union for a number of weeks. We will continue to work with our union colleagues in good faith and are committed to further discussions to resolve any remaining matters.”