Logistics giant DHL Apologizes for Banning Worker from London Marathon
Logistics giant DHL, in a rather embarrassing move, has issued an apology to one of its long-serving workers after preventing him from participating in this weekend’s highly anticipated London Marathon. Michael Dallard, an employee stationed at East Midlands Airport for nearly 24 years, was informed by the company that his spot had been reassigned to a colleague deemed more ‘committed to the success’ of the organization due to his involvement in recent strike activities.
The 48-year-old worker expressed his feelings of being ‘angry and upset’ following this unexpected turn of events. DHL Aviation has since publicly expressed regret to Mr. Dallard and declared that they are internally addressing the situation.
Unite the Union representatives, actively involved in advocating for better pay on behalf of workers since February, portrayed DHL’s decision as part of a deliberate strategy targeting those engaged in strike actions.
It was back in December when Mr. Dallard secured his position in the London Marathon through his employer’s initiative and had been earnestly preparing for the event ever since. However, an email later informed him: “You have now, for some time, been participating in industrial actions that are detrimental to our operations. We recognize and uphold your right to engage in such activities, but we aim to allocate London Marathon entries to individuals who have evidenced their unwavering dedication and commitment to the company’s success over the preceding 12 months. Consequently, we have opted to transfer your spot to another colleague.”
Mr. Dallard shared his dismay by stating, “I felt quite angry and upset about it. I was in disbelief and passed it onto the union reps. It makes it personal. It’s most runners’ dreams to run in the capital city of the country and it gets taken away just like that for doing something you’re allowed to do. It’s not a bad company, it’s just this situation.”
Melanie Todner, the regional officer representing East Midlands at Unite, voiced her concern that the harm caused by DHL’s actions remains despite the subsequent apology. She highlighted the alleged unfair treatment of around 180 striking employees by the company, including instances of disciplinary meetings, suspensions, and harassment.
She emphasized, “We only resort to strike action as a last resort, but when we do, it inevitably impacts business operations and leads to adverse reactions from managers. It’s had the opposite effect, strengthening their resolve to stay on strike.”
A spokesperson for DHL Aviation conveyed, “We sincerely extend our apologies to Michael for the unfortunate incident and the handling thereof. This matter has been addressed with the union and internally reviewed. Regarding concerns raised about alleged unfair practices involving dismissals and suspensions, we confirm that all cases within the company undergo fair scrutiny and are handled in accordance with HR policy.”
