Over 180 members of Unite, the UK’s leading union, employed by Suntory Beverage & Food in Gloucestershire have called off escalated industrial action after Unite secured a 5.5 per cent pay increase.

This deal follows seven days of strikes because billion-pound Suntory – which produces famous drinks including Lucozade and Ribena – had rescinded on a commitment to undertake a pay review.

Staff were promised a review should inflation exceed five per cent before June 2023. A promise that Suntory had failed to honour. However, following the initial industrial action earlier this month, fresh talks were held and an improved offer was made. The workers will now receive a back payment effective from April 2023.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “The unity of our members was critical. Once Suntory saw that members were not prepared to budge it returned to the bargaining table with an improved offer.

“This result again demonstrates how Unite is actively delivering improvements to the jobs, pay and conditions of our members.”

The next phase of industrial action was due to begin on Wednesday (28 February) – lasting until Thursday 7th March, however following the acceptance of the improved offer, this action will not go ahead.

Unite regional officer, Michael Hobbs, concluded: “Our members should not have to choose between heating or eating. The cost-of-living crisis is hard to navigate so this pay increase provides much needed support during a difficult economic period.

“Despite this agreement there remains several issues of major concern for our members at Suntory and Unite will be addressing them during forthcoming negotiations.”

The deal that Unite secured was for a total pay increase from 2023 of 5.5 per cent, this is a two per cent increase on what had originally been awarded.

Negotiations for the 2024 pay increase will begin on 1 April, Unite will also be addressing several other issues including with workers’ shifts, after a recently imposed change from Suntory.

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS

For media enquiries ONLY please contact Unite communications advisor Hannah Thornley 07710 094 492.

Email: Hannah.thornley@unitetheunion.org

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