Beer delivery driver strike suspended
Union Unite has recommended the draymen, which it estimated are responsible for about 40% of beer deliveries across the UK and are based at 26 sites, accept the new 4% offer.
The trade union labelled GXO’s previous pay offer of 1.4% as “paltry” and 97% of its members voted in favour of strike action and for industrial action short of a strike by 99% over the company’s offer of 1.4% for 2021.
Fair pay rise
This was also accompanied by an overtime ban and work to rule, starting on 24 August and continuing up to Monday 15 November.
The strikes were set to take place tomorrow (Tuesday 24 August) and Thursday 2 September but have now been called off while the ballot, which opens today (Monday 23 August) and closes on Tuesday 31 August is carried out.
Unite national officer for food, drink and agriculture Joe Clarke said: “Our members keep the nation’s beer pumps flowing and pint glasses filled, and they deserve a fair pay rise.
“We believe GXO’s offer of 4% delivers this and will be recommending our members accept the deal. All industrial action has been suspended while we conduct this democratic process.
Strong mandate
He added: “We had a very strong mandate for industrial action and Unite is pleased the company has recognised the need for this offer.”
The Morning Advertiser contacted GXO Logistics Drinks for a comment but had not received a response at the time of publication.
However, previously a spokesperson said the company favoured dialogue in all its negotiations and outlined its stance on the strike action.
They added: “Discussions are ongoing in order to reach agreement, in particular for the hospitality sector that is now only emerging from the impact of the Covid-19 lockdown.”
