Asda has been accused of using a “revolving door” to replace disabled staff, after sacking a trolley porter who had worked at the supermarket for 30 years.

According to EssexLive, Mark Misell was let go after smoking in the car park of a Southend store, rather than the designated smoking area.

The GMB Union claimed there was “no way” that he could have known about the policy as he cannot read or write.

It has warned the Big 4 grocer that it could be in breach of equality legislation.

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“Gone are the days when Asda would respect their workforce and support those with disabilities,” GMB regional officer Keith Dixon said.

“It is becoming common practice for colleagues with disabilities to be challenged upon their work rate, work speed or matters to which they have no control.

“Asda appears to be operating a revolving door scenario where those with disabilities are pushed out of the business to be replaced by non-disabled colleagues.”

The union has contacted its legal team and intends to bring the case to an employment tribunal.

“We do not comment on individual colleague circumstances,” an Asda spokesman said.

“We have advised Mr Misell and his representatives as to the next steps following the final hearing last week.”

On its website, Asda claims to “make the most of the talents that colleagues with disabilities bring to the workplace”.

Like its fellow Big 4 grocers, it has signed up to the government’s Disability Confident Scheme.

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