Budweiser workers set for more strikes
The GMB Union has said that Budweiser strike action scheduled for July will go ahead after crisis talks collapsed. The union said it had refused the offer of a 3% pay cut which would “take money out of workers' pockets during a cost-of-living crisis.”
In May it was revealed that Budweiser workers were to conduct a series of summer strikes in June following its ongoing pay dispute.
However, Budweiser has said that it offers competitive package with wages at the brewery in the top 10% in the region.
Fair Deal
Stephen Boden, GMB organiser, said that workers were angry.
‘‘Therefore, we will be going ahead with a 36 hour walk out starting Saturday 16 July at 7pm until Monday 16 July at 7am - with a further 12 hour stoppage on Tuesday 19 July,” he added.
“But it’s not too late for management to listen to workers and get back round the table with us to work out a fair deal.”
A spokesperson from Budweiser Brewing Group said: “Budweiser Brewing Group has a positive and long-standing relationship with the GMB, however despite open negotiations, the GMB have confirmed that there will be additional dates for industrial action at our Samlesbury brewery.
Competitive package
“Our people are our greatest strength, and as such we are proud to offer a competitive package – wages in the Brewery are in the top 10% for the region and a range of benefits are provided including private medical cover, wellbeing allowance, access to the Verhelst Foundation to support physical and mental wellbeing, a ‘perks at work’ programme, product vouchers, opportunities for scholarship funds and bonuses.
“We’ve made significant investments in Samlesbury which have resulted in further innovation and automation, additional skills development, promotions and many new job opportunities. Over recent years we have increased our headcount by over 65."
The spokesperson added: "While we have not yet reached an agreement, we continue to work toward a mutually acceptable solution.”
The company said it had implemented plans to ensure that supply is not interrupted.
