Strikes by more than 230 Gateshead workers employed by International Paints, which is owned by Akzo Nobel, have ended after they voted to accept an improved pay offer.

The two-year deal, secured by Unite, the UK’s leading union, includes a six per cent increase in basic salary and allowances back dated to April this year.

From April 2024, basic salary and allowances will increase by a further five per cent unless a better deal is secured at another International Paints site, in which case the workers will receive pay parity with that site.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Well done to the workers at International Paints in Gateshead, who secured a much-improved pay deal by standing firm in their union. Once again, Unite’s unrelenting focus on improving jobs, pay and conditions is paying dividends for our members.”

Strike action which began at the end of July has now ended and the workers have returned to work as normal.

Unite regional officer Steve Cason said: “This result shows that there is power in a union. Those wanting a better deal on their wages and working conditions should join Unite and encourage their colleagues to join as well.”

ENDS

For media enquires ONLY contact Unite communications officer Ryan Fletcher on 07849 090215

Email: ryan.fletcher@unitetheunion.org 

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Web: unitetheunion.org

Unite is Britain and Ireland’s largest union with members working across all sectors of the economy. The general secretary is Sharon Graham.