'Great win' for DHL Tradeteam drivers

More than 100 HGV drivers employed by DHL Tradeteam in Burton-on-Trent are celebrating a pay deal worth up to nearly £6,000 a year, negotiated by Unite.

The drivers, who were due to begin strike action this week, voted overwhelmingly in favour of an improved offer put forward by the company.

The deal includes a pay increase worth 7.5 per cent, which has typically raised basic pay by £2,750 for 2022.

Drivers also now have the right to refuse any route that takes more than 11.5 hours (including rest time and breaks). Those that do accept longer routes will receive a new premium rate. Given the distances of the routes, the drivers are often working for 13 hours (including rest time and breaks).

The premium rate will see many drivers earn up to £3,000 a year without having to work extra hours, based on their annualised hours contract.

The combination of the percentage pay rise and premium rates means that the drivers’ total earnings could increase by nearly £6,000 a year.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said, “This is a great win for our DHL Tradeteam members, upping pay and improving work-life balance. Unite solidarity got this significant improvement to their wages and conditions over the line.

“As this deal shows, Unite wins for its members and always fights to improve their jobs, pay and conditions.”

Unite regional officer Rick Coyle added, “Unite has successfully persuaded DHL Tradeteam to treat its drivers well. There’s power in a union, which is why workers looking for better wages and treatment should join Unite.”

By Ryan Fletcher