The Co-op is facing an equal pay claim that alleges some store workers may have been paid less than distribution centre employees doing work of equal value.
The claim follows similar legal action against several major UK supermarkets, including Asda, Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Morrisons.
While the case is still at a relatively early stage, a number of important developments have already taken place.
What is the Co-op equal pay claim about?
Equal pay law allows workers to bring claims where they believe they have not received equal pay for equal work or work of equal value.
The Co-op claim alleges that predominantly female store workers have been paid less than predominantly male distribution centre workers, despite carrying out roles that may be of equal value.
Claimant lawyers argue that the difference in pay cannot be justified. The Co-op disputes the allegations and has not been found liable.
The claim remains ongoing.
Why are supermarket equal pay claims becoming more common?
Equal pay claims have become one of the most significant employment law issues affecting the retail sector.
Many of the cases focus on comparisons between store-based roles and distribution centre roles. Claimants argue that while the jobs are different, they require comparable levels of skill, effort and responsibility and should therefore attract similar rates of pay.
Each claim is assessed on its own facts and legal arguments, but developments in one case are often closely watched by workers and employers across the sector.
What has happened in the Co-op case so far?
The litigation has already passed a number of important milestones.
One significant development came when Co-op store workers won a key legal argument after the supermarket conceded that the roles being compared in the claim were comparable for the purposes of the litigation. This allowed the case to move forward to the next stage of the legal process.
More recently, an Employment Tribunal ruled that the claim could continue progressing through the legal process.
These decisions do not determine whether the claim will ultimately succeed, and Co-op has not been found liable. However, they have allowed the litigation to continue moving forward.
What could happen next?
As with many large-scale equal pay claims, the legal process involves a number of stages.
Future hearings are expected to consider questions such as whether the roles are of equal value and, if so, whether any differences in pay can be legally justified.
The process can take time, particularly where large numbers of workers are involved.
Who may be interested in following the claim?
The claim may be relevant to current and former Co-op store workers.
Both men and women may potentially be affected. While the legal arguments focus on allegations of gender-related pay disparities, equal pay claims are not limited to female workers.
The relevance of the claim will depend on an individual’s circumstances and employment history.
What about other supermarket equal pay claims?
The Co-op is not alone in facing equal pay litigation. Similar claims have also been brought against Asda, Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Morrisons.
However, each supermarket claim is separate and developments in one case do not determine the outcome of another.
Where can I find the latest developments?
The Co-op equal pay claim remains ongoing and the position may change as the litigation progresses.
If you think the claim may be relevant to you, visit our dedicated Co-op equal pay claim page for the latest updates and information.
We’ll continue to monitor developments and provide updates as new information becomes available.
Join the Claim connects consumers with SRA-regulated lawyers. Visit the claim page to check your eligibility if a claim is open with one of our trusted legal partners. If a group action has not yet been launched, you can register your interest and we’ll keep you informed if a partner firm decides to take a claim forward.
