Draymen pay dispute settled

Unite members voted by an 80% majority on a 94% turnout to accept the new offer of 4% from GXO for this year.

The proposed strike action, which was set to take place last month (August) and this month (September), was postponed following the improved pay offer​. Unite members have been and are currently, working normally.

Unite 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.

Significant victory

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.

Unite national officer for the drinks industry Joe Clarke said: “We regard this agreement as a significant victory for our members the company had originally offered a paltry 1.4% for this year.

“However we wanted a pay rise that reflected the current cost of living and we have achieved that goal.

“It demonstrates what can be achieved when Unite members show determination and solidarity, backed up with a strong mandate for industrial action."

Constructive dialogue

Clarke added: “I would like to thank our members for the unity they have displayed during these tough negotiations, which greatly assisted in obtaining the pay package that has now been accepted.

“We look forward to a constructive dialogue with the management going forward on the many issues facing the sector.”

A ​GXO spokesperson said the company was pleased to have reached an agreement with all parties involved.

They added: "This deal has come at a critical time for the UK hospitality industry and will help the sector continue to recover after a difficult time. At GXO, we will remain focused on supporting our customers to ensure their supply chain networks are fully operational and prepared to meet the healthy demand in pubs, bars and other venues nationwide.”