The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) is urging the United Workers Union (UWU) to consider the safety and wellbeing of staff, shoppers and the community following ongoing industrial action against Woolworths supermarket.
ARA Chief Industry Affairs Officer Fleur Brown said while industrial action is a fundamental right, there is a fair balance to be struck to protect employees and customers.
"Everyone has the right to feel safe at work, and industrial action should not impede on workers wishing to carry out their everyday duties.
"If an employee wishes to return to work, they should be able to do so without fear of retribution.
Ms Brown also said that Australians need access to vital food and grocery products particularly in the lead-up to Christmas.
"This is the busiest period for retailers and shoppers which places great demand on the supply of these products with a flow-on effect to many Australians.
"Retailers are major employers and significant contributors to the economy. Protracted incidents such as this have significant financial repercussions for the broader economy, impacting all Australians."
