Late summer beer drought averted

The pay dispute by 1,000 GXO draymen, which had threatened a late summer beer drought, has been settled after they voted overwhelmingly to accept an improved pay offer.

Unite the union said its members had voted by an 80 per cent majority on a 94 per cent turnout to accept the improved offer of four per cent by GXO Logistics Drinks Ltd (previously XPO Logistics Drinks Ltd) for this year.

The draymen deliver about 40 per cent of the country’s beer to pubs and other hospitality outlets across the UK from 26 sites. They had voted for two days of strike action, which were suspended, while they voted on the deal. Unite members are working normally.

Unite national officer Joe Clarke said, “We regard this agreement as a significant victory for our members, given that the company had originally offered a paltry 1.4 per cent for this year. However, we wanted a pay rise that reflected the current cost of living and we have achieved that goal.

“It demonstrates what can be achieved when Unite members show determination and solidarity, backed up with a strong mandate for industrial action,” he added.

“I would to like thank our members for the unity they have displayed during these tough negotiations which greatly assisted in obtaining the pay package that has now been accepted,” Clarke continued.

“We look forward to a constructive dialogue with the management going forward on the many issues facing the sector.”

By Shaun Noble