Woolworths has filed an urgent application with the Fair Work Commission to stop union members from blocking access to its distribution centres, as it claims the industrial action has cost the business $50 million so far.

Woolworths has lodged an application with Fair Work to stop striking workers from blocking access to its distribution centres in Victoria and NSW as the supermarket giant counts the cost of the workplace dispute.

The nation’s largest supermarket operator has applied for an urgent court order to keep unions from blocking access to distribution sites in Victoria and NSW.

Woolworths say the ongoing strike at several of its distribution centres has cost it $50 million – and costs will keeping mounting.

Woolworths Group said its Australian food sales have been negatively affected by about $50 million due to industrial action.

The continuation of the strike into its second week reflects the determination of workers to fight. But to do so will require a rebellion against the United Workers Union bureaucracy.

Shoppers could face empty shelves in the weeks leading up to Christmas as Woolworths warehouse workers continue to strike. The United Workers Union is demanding better safety, pay and equity from the supermarket giant.