A union representing more than 4,000 workers in Dunnes Stores says the company's committment to implement a 3% pay rise is a welcome development and goes some way towards a larger claim.
Mandate is also seeking a review of pay scales and pay rates, a review of temporary contracts and the introduction of banded hour contracts.
The union says it has referred the full claim on behalf of its members to the Labour Relations Commission, and it is not a coincidence that Dunnes Stores announced the 3% pay increase on the same day.
Dunnes Stores employees more than 10,000 staff in 116 stores in Ireland.