KFC are carrying out refurbishments to a number of their sites across the country. The Blenheim staff were notified earlier in the year that the store would be closed for five weeks. The staff were left unsure about important issues such as payment during the closure and even if their jobs would still be there on re-opening day.

Unite responded to members calls of concern and a petition demanding to know job security, the dates of the closure and payment for the forced leave was organised. Whilst the petition was being circulated, KFC issued a letter stating there will be no changes to anyone’s employment status and that the dates will become known to staff as soon as they are confirmed by management.

Most significantly it states that that the crew will be given the opportunity to learn new skills off site on training programmes and group community activities whilst the store is closed, which is something never before seen within the industry.

Unite warmly welcomes this recent offer and invites all members to inform their union organiser if their store is due to close for refurbishments or for other lengthy periods.