SMT Managers Strike Over Wage Freeze Offer
What happened
Store management team members at SMT began striking for the first time over a wage freeze offer on October 9, 2026. Hundreds of Workers First Union members stopped work for one hour to protest the deal, which would freeze wages for some managers for up to five years. Union members voted to reject the company’s offer, which also includes a two-tiered pay system and pay rises below inflation for others.
From scoop.co.nz
Why it matters
The strike action is part of ongoing bargaining for the store managers’ collective agreement, which began on March 23 this year. The dispute centers on the company’s proposed pay structure and the two-tiered system that has been in place since last year’s restructure.
From scoop.co.nz
Who's involved
- SMTThe company where the strike is occurring over wage disputes.
- Singapore Press HoldingsThe parent company of SMT.
- Chan Yeng KitThe chairman of SMT.
- Anil SuriThe Chief Commercial Officer for SMT.
- BoeingA major customer of SMT, relying on its component supply chain.
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- BoeingSpeculative
Boeing might face supply chain delays or increased costs if SMT operations are disrupted by the labor dispute.