Scrooge strikers set to wreck Christmas

Last-minute shoppers and small retailers face bleak festive season amid supply chaos

- Jon Coates

STRIKES at two of Britain’s biggest ports could prevent some stores from restocking popular goods in the run-up to Christmas, experts have warned.

Dockers at Felixstowe are set to walk out for eight days from Tuesday in an ongoing pay row.

More than 1,900 workers at the Suffolk port went on strike last month, also for eight days, after calling for a 10 per cent pay rise.

It follows action by more than 550 dockers at the Port of Liverpool, who began a two-week strike last Tuesday.

Both walkouts come amid soaring inflation, with fears they could lead to gaps on shelves.

This will hit retailers already struggling with cash-flow problems as a result of soaring costs and low consumer confidence.

And in another blow, rail workers are expected to strike again on October 1, 5 and 8, which may impact customers visiting shops.

As Felixstowe handles 48 per cent of the UK’s imported goods the disruption could mean less choice in electronic items or toys.

Wines may also be harder to find, as nearly five million litres a week go through the port.

Wholesaler Mark Lansley, of Broadland Drinks, in Norfolk, said his company has brought in bulk orders earlier than normal to meet demand at Christmas.