Workers at Chemist Warehouse have voted to endorse strike action as part of a bid to win a huge pay rise and greater job security.

If they decide at further meetings to go on strike, supplies of non-prescription goods at the company's extensive chain of shops could begin running short within days.

The discount retailer has become famous for its ultra-cheap prices and its assault on the traditional pharmacy business model in Australia.

Workers at Chemist Warehouse distribution centres are paid much less than at its competitors Credit:Kate Geraghty

But its workers this week voted to back industrial action at three key warehouses on the east coast of Australia, over a claim for a 25 to 30 per cent pay rise and an increase in the proportion of the workforce that is permanent labour. The strikes could start as early as next week.