Matthew Clark drivers and mates take action
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By Chris Druce DRIVERS AND DRIVERS’ mates went on strike on Monday (22 August), walking out at drinks supplier and own-account operator Matthew Clark Wholesale’s Runcorn depot in a dispute over pay and conditions.
Members of the United Road Transport Union (URTU) started action at 5am on Monday, having refused Matthew Clark’s inal offer of a 2.5% annual pay increase and additional holiday (this year) made in May. In total, 21 drivers and drivers’ mates are part of the action. A series of walkouts is planned if a resolution is not forthcoming and URTU workers will be working to rule.
URTU national oficer Mel Thornton tells CM: “3% would be acceptable, but the lads were adamant that they wanted to go out.”
Thornton argues that Matthew Clark, which supplies the hospitality industry, continues to make money and the affected members, especially drivers’ mates, do not earn a huge amount.
He adds that with inlation at 5%, they are being squeezed as the basic cost of living continues to climb.
However, Ian Gordon, regional MD (North) at Matthew Clark, says: “URTU has conirmed that some drivers and mates from Runcorn are taking strike action. “Matthew Clark has been working closely with the union and has offered a 2.5% pay increase, discretionary bonus and a day additional holiday to members, which was rejected by URTU.
“This offer has been accepted by the rest of the Matthew Clark business and the company believes it is competitive and fair given the current economic climate.” A meeting between union and company representatives was scheduled to take place as CM went to press.
The action at Matthew Clark comes just weeks after Coca-Cola distribution staff voted to commence industrial action over pay and Carlsberg drivers rejected a pay offer of 2.75% in May.
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