[2] The union represented workers employed in manufacturing grocers' sundries and non-edible grocery products, particularly in the southern states of South Australia and Victoria.
The union made representations to government and the public in favour of protectionist measures to ensure the competitiveness of products manufactured in Australia with international imports.
[5] The Manufacturing Grocers' Union underwent several bitter industrial disputes during its history, including a number of strikes.
The strike lasted for several months and led to shortages of several products in Victoria, due to blockade of goods by the employers.
The dispute was resolved when all parties agreed to allow the Commonwealth Statistician determine a fair daily output per worker.