As a ex employee i know how DHL Air management works.
We tried to get the TGWU in but this was not possible as they didn't want to get into BALPA's way.
BALPA was never my favorite union but numbers speak so lots of the people did join BALPA to get things changed(inc.me)
I also was a member of the IPA/IPF for the last 10 years, its a good organisation for help but not powerful enough to help the staff reach a good bargaining agreement with management.
I was already in the !!!!s with management and was luckily able to leave for pastures greener(yes they really are) im not a member of the TGWU, BALPA or the IPA any more and my opinion doesn't matter as i dont work there anymore.
But in my eyes the majority should have a say in what union gets in, if some people dont think they need a union thats fine, they can maybe get a free ride when a union gets in.
It is very strange that Management can decide what union is best for the workers, thats the same as a employee deciding what salary is appropriate for himself.
But like with many things the UK is a strange country when it goes about labour law.
the practise of a union going in and signing a agreement "for there members" without even telling there members is also a strange practise.
My advice to all DHL staff is watch out for the managers, they will do anything to keep full control over there staff.(speaking from experience)
Neil