A LEADING union has claimed a “massive victory” for workers’ rights after a legal ruling over its bid to represent warehouse staff at supermarket giant Lidl.

The GMB hailed a decision by the Court of Appeal to reject an attempt by the company to overturn a previous ruling allowing it to negotiate on behalf of workers at a site in Bridgend.

The court confirmed the right of the GMB to ballot the workers for union recognition.

Lorraine Gaskell, regional organiser of the GMB, said: “This will pave the way for workers at Bridgend to negotiate their pay and conditions via their democratically selected union reps.

A Lidl spokesman said: “Whilst we are disappointed with the outcome of the Court of Appeal, we respect the decision and the ballot process will receive our full support.

“As a responsible retailer, we are committed to ensuring that our employees receive industry-leading terms and conditions. We believe our employees are fairly represented within the business, without having to engage with unions and creating a fragmented workforce."