On September 9, Stirling Solidarity Space (SolSpa) called for a boycott of the on-campus Nisa, a franchise run by Omar Retail.
They outlined concerns over the employment practices of the shop, which replaced the Co-op last September. Omar Retail also operated the Co-op franchise.
SolSpa’s concerns
The student activist group have alleged that “Nisa has yet again engaged in the practices of firing and rehiring workers” after previously being referred to the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) for “violating the rights of its workers”. They did not give evidence of this occurring, nor if the complaints were upheld.
It is unclear whether it is Omar Retail or Nisa who was allegedly referred to ACAS. There has also been no evidence of fire-and-rehire practices put forward.
They also have concerns over staff pay: “The nisa [sic] already charges extortionate prices, and yet only pays minimum wage, which is out of line with other employers on campus.”
Nisa currently pays staff the National Minimum wage for staff aged 18-21, which is £8.60 per hour, and the National Living Wage for over 21s, which is £11.44 per hour.
SolSpa’s demands
SolSpa listed in their demands that the Nisa “commit to paying its workers a true Living Wage”. They did not further clarify what this pay should be.
The Real Living Wage, calculated by the Resolution Foundation, is £12 per hour in Scotland. This figure is finalised by the Living Wage Commission and is based on the UK cost of living and interaction from focus groups.
While over 15,000 UK businesses pay their staff a real living wage, it is a voluntary commitment.
SolSpa has also demanded that Nisa “recognise a trade union in its workplace”.
Trade Unions can gain recognition in the workplace through two methods: The employer can voluntarily agree to recognise it. If the employer refuses, the trade union can approach the Central Arbitration Committee (CAC) to gain recognition.
A Union will be recognised if the majority of employees in the ballot vote to recognise the union, and if at least 40 per cent of the employees in the bargaining unit vote to recognise the union.
SolSpa has also demanded that Nisa commit to “protecting and respecting the rights of its workers” and “stopping the practice of firing and rehiring workers.” There has been no public evidence that Omar Retail has disrespected the rights of its workers.
SolSpa set the deadline for October 1 “or until they give in to our demands”. The group stated that if this did not happen, “we will be forced to escalate”.
There has been no official statement from Omar Retail since the boycott was called and no further action from SolSpa.
SolSpa and Omar Retail’s responses
Brig reached out to Stirling Solidarity Space for comment and if there was evidence behind the allegations. Omar Retail was also asked to respond to the allegations. Neither responded.
A spokesperson from the University of Stirling stated: “We are aware of allegations, but due to an ongoing investigation, are unable to comment further.” It is unclear if this is an internal or external investigation.
A Union spokesperson commented: “The Students’ Union’s Advice & Help Service supports members regarding on and off campus-based employment, but as they provide free, confidential and impartial guidance we are unable to comment on any specific cases.
“Regardless, all students deserve to have the right to good working conditions and practices. As a Students’ Union our aim is to empower students to know their employment rights, and you can come pick up a “Know Your Rights” booklet from the Students’ Union office in the atrium.
“If you need help or support, please speak to our advice service.”
Featured Image Credit: Jonathan Boomer
Fourth-year English and Journalism student.
News Editor 2024/25.
Get in touch at news@brignews.com.
