Asda’s depot management team is set to vote on whether GMB will become their official union representative following a landmark decision by the Central Arbitration Committee (CAC).

More than 1,000 salaried managers operating across 23 UK depots will take part in the ballot after GMB submitted a petition indicating over 60% of eligible staff back formal union recognition.

GMB national officer Nadine Houghton described the move as a positive step for workers who she claims have faced “declining” pay and conditions since Asda’s private equity-backed takeover by TDR Capital.

“A clear majority of the workforce want GMB to be their collective union voice at work – now they will have a chance to vote in a full ballot,” she said.

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“If the vote is for recognition, GMB will negotiate directly with company bosses over pay, terms and conditions – things which have been significantly eroded since Asda was brought out and asset stripped by private equity owners TDR Capital.

She added that, since being granted the vote, the supermarket chain has reportedly sought to “attempted to stymie support for the union ” by incentives including a pay rise and additional benefits.

However, according to Houghton, these moves have only strengthened employees’ resolve: “Workers know this was only achieved because they started to organise into the GMB. Union recognition is about winning improvements now and for years to come while protecting what is achieved.”

An Asda spokesperson said: “We are pleased to have been able to offer improved pay and terms to our depot management population thanks to the direct engagement and feedback we have with them.

“We are grateful for all of the engagement we receive directly from our colleagues through the official forums we operate and hold regularly, within which the latest renumeration package was agreed recently.”