Almost a month since a joint Fairfax-ABC investigation put 7-Eleven in the media headlines, convenience store market leader is still facing a significant backlash over the wage fraud scandal.
Chairman Russ Withers will face a senate hearing today, Thursday 24 September, where he will be asked to explain the allegations of systemic underpayment and the claim that franchisees would not be able to stay afloat if they were to pay correct wages.
Law firm Maurice Blackburn, which confirmed its offer of pro bono legal advice to current and former 7-Eleven staff on Monday 21 September, has called on new Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull to give amnesty to any 7-Eleven workers who have breached their visa conditions.
According to The Sydney Morning Herald, Mr Withers is expected to make an announcement outlining changes to the business’ profit model, which currently pays franchisees a 43% share of gross profits excluding fuel sales, at franchisee business meetings in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane in early October. This has not yet been confirmed by 7-Eleven.