STRIKE action has been called off at a Burton depot employing hundreds of workers after an improved pay deal was agreed.
Staff at the B&Q depot in Burton Road, Branston, were celebrating after talks with Wincanton, which recently took over the running of the site from CEVA Logistics, resulted in a 7.1 per cent hourly rate increase during the next 12 months.
The news comes after the union claimed the pay situation had left some workers with so little money that they were eating only one meal a day – to ensure their children get to eat three times.
Unite union regional officer Rick Coyle said: “I am pleased to report that this dispute has been settled.
“Members at Branston have voted by 116 to 22 to accept an improved offer.
“Under the improved offer, hourly rates will increase by 7.1 per cent during the next 12 months.
The offer (which is a three-year deal) is 5.1 per cent paid on February 1 this year, including back pay of 2.4 per cent to February 1, 2012. A further two per cent will be paid on February 1, 2014.
“Unite has established a good relationship with Wincanton, who took control of the site from Ceva Logistics on February 1 this year.
“All Unite members on site are now being paid above the national living wage.
“The deal also saw management reverse price increases in the workers’ canteen, plus a new site agreement regulating shutdowns.
“The value of unions is clear for all to see. Despite difficult retail trading conditions, Unite has secured real pay progress for its members.
“We look forward to building upon the positive relationships that have been established with Wincanton management.”
In December last year a ballot was set to be called over strike action, but that was put on hold as the running of the warehouse changed from CEVA to Wincanton on February 1.
Members had voted unanimously to be balloted for a strike, and also to take part in a series of protests.
