100 OCS staff receive boost to jobs, pay and conditions 

Over 100 OCS Group workers based at Edinburgh airport have overwhelmingly backed a new pay offer averting strike action this month Scotland’s leading aviation union, revealed today (19 September). 

A two-year pay deal has been overwhelmingly supported by the OCS workers which represents a significant improvement on previous offers from the company. 

The workers will receive a 6.1 per cent increase on hourly rates effective from 1 January 2025 alongside a boost to the overtime rate. In 2026, a five per cent increase on hourly rates will run from 1 January alongside improvements to the company sick pay scheme.  

Unite’s OCS membership had unanimously backed strike action in a ballot with a turnout of over 90 per cent. The workers were scheduled to take part in a series of stoppages during September but action was suspended after the union received an enhanced pay offer from OCS. 

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Unite’s OCS membership were fully prepared to fight back through strike action, to secure a fair pay deal. It was this strong stance which forced the company to make an improved offer. It’s a good deal which shows Unite once again delivering better jobs, pay and conditions for Scotland's airport workers.”

The OCS Group covers workers who aid passengers with reduced mobility issues including assisting with wheelchairs and ambilift vehicles for travellers at Edinburgh airport.   

Carrie Binnie, Unite industrial officer, said: “The OCS workers remained resolute throughout this pay dispute.  The accepted offer represents a significant improvement to terms and conditions on where the negotiations began with OCS. We are pleased to have delivered a good pay deal which provides a timely boost to our members.”

-ENDS-

Notes to Editors 

For media enquiries please contact Andrew Brady on 07810157922. Email andrew.brady@unitetheunion.org 

Unite Scotland is the country’s biggest and most diverse trade union with around 150,000 members.