Aerospace supplier firm workers to strike

Skilled workers, based in Broughton in Chester, supplying manufacturers including Airbus, will take a series of one day strikes in a dispute over pay beginning tomorrow (August 17).

The Metal Improvement Company (MIC), which produces coatings to protect a range of components for the aerospace industry, made pre-tax profits of £36.2 million in 2021, a 26 per cent increase on the previous year. But the company is offering workers a pay deal which significantly falls behind inflation.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said, “This specialist manufacturing company has the financial resources to support its workforce with a pay deal which keeps up with inflation.

“The workers have Unite’s full support. They deserve a fair pay deal which protects their incomes and recognises the contribution the workers have made to this successful business.”

More than 40 workers employed by the Metal Improvement Company (MIC) will take a series of one day strikes on 17, 24 and 31 August after a 100 per cent vote in favour of strike action.

Customers, such as Airbus and Magellan Aerospace, will experience supply chain interruption, creating a possible loss of production time.

Unite regional officer Jono Davies added, “Bosses have refused to sit down across the table and negotiate. Their failure to engage is now leading to a series of strikes.

“It’s time for management to face the union and negotiate a fair pay deal.”

By Ciaran Naidoo