RETAIL giant Woolworths plans to introduce sweeping changes in working practices at its Dorcan Industrial Estate depot.

The depot in Faraday Road, which employs around 200 people, is one of a handful of Woolworths distribution plants across the country and currently operates five days-a-week handling goods from across Britain before sorting and distributing them to branches nationwide.

But under new proposals, which could come into effect later this summer, the company is planning to structure its operation to run seamlessly all week round.

Managers say that distribution costs in relation to the value of sales have increased for the past five years. They say most stores operate all week round, but the Woolworths supply chain does not and that situation is not sustainable.

Some employees have opposed the changes in their contracts, which are currently being discussed with trade union officials, saying it does not compensate them fully.

Under the proposals staff will work 12-hour early and day shifts while Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays (including Boxing Day) will no longer be classed "premium" working days the only exceptions being Christmas Day and New Year's Day.

Workers will be told when to take their holiday. The extra subsidy for restaurant food at the weekends will be scrapped and holiday supplements for workers will be phased out because it complicates the payroll process.

One worker, who did not wish to be named, said: "The company seem to want to bully us into these changes and as far as I can see we'll be working more hours for less pay."

The firm would ideally like these changes to be in place by September, which is traditionally when the store's Christmas rush starts.

Woolworths spokesman, Daniel Himsworth, said: "Woolworths can confirm it has entered into a consultation process with trade unions and staff at its Swindon distribution centre regarding changes to employee contracts.

"Woolworths is proposing changes to its distribution systems to bring the company in line with other retailers who have already adopted similar practices.

"We strongly believe the changes will bring significant benefits to our customers they will also bring benefits to both the company and employees."

"This process is at an early stage. Further consultations are set to take place next week and will continue until an agreement is reached. There are no job losses."

"The majority don't want these changes, but the company seems to be saying that if we don't like it then we can clear off. Morale is not good and I know I'm in a dead-end job eight hours is just about bearable, but 12 hours is totally out of the question.