My Time at Tesco
I started off in produce, handling fruit and veg before moving to dairy, which covered the chilled areas, like pizzas and cheese. Over the years, I worked in various departments: from scan-to-shop when that was introduced, to working checkouts, petrol stations, working night shifts when I got older, and even warehouse duties when needed. Basically, I’d done a bit of everything during my time there.
I stayed loyal to the Gloucester store, even after I started university in Worcester, driving back every weekend to do my shifts.
Like a lot of people, I didn’t really question how things worked at first. I got on with my job and tried to juggle it with uni life. But when I found out about the pay disparity between shop floor staff and warehouse workers, it hit me how unfair it was.
Why I Joined the Tesco Equal Pay Claim
I joined the claim before the pandemic—probably around 2018 or 2019. I saw what was going on with the equal pay claim and after reading a little bit more and comparing the experiences of supermarket and warehouse workers, it hit me how unfair the pay disparity really was.
The more I thought about it, the clearer it became I had been doing similar level of work to the warehouse staff but they were paid significantly more. You’d hear warehouse workers, who came over for things like store refits, talking about their jobs like it was the same as ours, but they were getting paid a lot more for it. It didn’t make sense.
That’s when I signed up for the claim, and I’ve been encouraging others to do the same ever since.
The Impact on My University Life
When I found out about the pay difference, it was a shock. I had no idea how much more warehouse staff were earning compared to us on the shop floor. It’s frustrating because if I’d been paid fairly, it could have made a difference to my life back then, especially during university.
I worked at Tesco Gloucester while studying in Worcester. My standard shift was on a Saturday, and I’d often take Sunday overtime to help cover my bills. I missed out on social life at university because I was too busy travelling and working. If I’d known about the pay disparity, I would’ve probably looked for a job closer to campus or at least felt less tied to Tesco.
Had I been earning what I deserved, I could have worked fewer hours, focused more on my studies, and enjoyed my time at university more. That extra £3 an hour could’ve been the difference between working to get by and having the time to actually enjoy my degree.
Encouraging You to Join the Tesco Equal Pay Claim
If you’re unsure about joining the claim, I get it—it’s not an easy decision.
Joining the claim isn’t just about the money, it’s about being on the right side of history. You’ll be part of a movement that’s pushing for equality and fairness in the workplace. The more people who join, the stronger the case becomes, and the more likely we are to win this fight for equal pay.
But I would be lying if I said the money wasn’t important. This is money that we should have been paid which Tesco has pocketed. For me, as someone who was a part-time worker, it could mean thousands in back pay. For full-time staff who’ve been working for Tesco for years, it could be tens of thousands.
Personally, we if we win the Tesco equal pay claim, I’ll put that money towards a house deposit—something that feels out of reach for a lot of us in this economy. For others, it could mean paying off debts, supporting their families, or just having the financial stability they deserve after years of hard work.
My Message to Tesco Employees past and present
I understand that some of you still work for Tesco, and there may be concerns about how this could affect your job. But Tesco has promised from the start that they won’t retaliate against anyone joining the claim.
So, what’s holding you back? If you’re still unsure, just remember that by joining, you’re standing up for yourself and your colleagues. You’re helping to make Tesco a fairer place to work, where shop floor workers are recognised for the role, they play in the company’s success.
If I’d been paid properly back when I worked there, I could have spent less time worrying about bills and more time enjoying university. That’s why I’m part of this claim now, and that’s why I encourage you to join too. It’s about getting the pay you deserve and making sure future workers don’t face the same unfair treatment.
Ready to Join the Equal Pay Claim?
If you’ve worked for Tesco or currently work there and believe you deserve fair pay for the work you’ve done, now’s the time to act. Join the equal pay claim today, and let’s make sure Tesco recognises the value of all its employees—whether you’re on the shop floor or in the warehouse.
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