Willman action averted
Page 8
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
• by Dominic Perry Wincanton Logistics has narrowly avoided industrial action at two of its depots after it improved pay offers to employees.
Drivers and warehouse staff on contract to supermarket chain Asda at its depots in Washington, Tyne 8c Wear and Wigan, Greater Manchester had threatened industrial action unless the company improved its initial offer of 3% (CM17-23 May).
A ballot by the GMB union at Washington showed 80% support for industrial action, but following an offer of 4% over two years the strike threat was withdrawn.
GMB regional organiser Stephen Thompkins says he is pleased with the pay rise. "Whenever it gets borderline it's a situation that no-one really wants, but we were pleased to put it to bed with the improved deal," he says.
However, he warns that pay is still lagging behind that of other local Asda employees.
One driver at the Wigan depot says: "We know Wincanton is doing its best, but 3% isn't enough for getting up in the middle of the night."
A third depot, Dartford in Kent, has just agreed to a 3.25% increase for last year's pay round after 12 months of protracted wrangling. Negotiations for this year's pay offer are due to begin shortly. Wincanton has been involved in a series of high-profile pay disputes with drivers on contracts for WH Smith and Rexam Plastics.
No one at Wincanton was available to comment as Commercial Motor went to press.