Barnsley workers employed by brick manufacturer Michelmersh have secured a 4.1 per cent pay rise after voting for industrial action.

Around 40 workers voted for strike action after rejecting a two per cent pay offer from the company.

Following the scheduling of strike action, Michelmersh put forward an improved offer for all grades of a two per cent increase from January 2026 plus a further 2.1 per cent from April.

The workers voted to accept the offer and the dispute was resolved without strikes taking place.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Well done to the Michelmersh workers – they stood together in their union and won an improved pay deal. This is exactly what Unite does – defends and improves our members’ jobs, pay and conditions.”

The deal also included mechanisms to improve industrial relations, including holding monthly meetings between the company and the union and beginning pay talks for 2027 in August.

Unite regional officer Phil Boyes said: “This win is another example of why those wanting a better deal at work should join Unite and organise their colleagues to join as well. There is power in a union.”

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.