Strikes by forklift drivers employed by Lockwood Haulage in Knottingley have ended after the company agreed to recognise the workers’ union Unite.
 
The forklift drivers, employed on the Ardagh Glass contract, took strike action in July to gain recognition.
 
All scheduled strike action has now been cancelled, with the workers now having formal union recognition for vital areas like health and safety, pay negotiations and disciplinary hearings.
 
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “A huge well done to the Lockwood forklift drivers who stood together on the picket line and won.
 
“This agreement will help to drive up the standard of jobs, pay and conditions for these workers.”
 
The forklift drivers were previously employed by GXO before transferring to Lockwood Haulage in March after the company took over the Ardagh Glass contract.
 
GXO had a longstanding recognition agreement on collective bargaining with Unite, which Lockwood has now agreed to sign.
 
Unite regional officer Phil Boyes said: “We are pleased that this dispute has ended with a minimum of disruption to Ardagh Glass, who I wish to thank for their patience.
 
“This win is another example of why those wanting to improve their working lives and wages should join Unite and organise their colleagues to join too.”
 
ENDS

For media enquires ONLY contact senior Unite communications officer Ryan Fletcher on 07849 090215 or 020 3371 2065. 

Email: ryan.fletcher@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.