It was announced by Unite in September last year that more than 700 workers at a Bakkavor facility in Spalding would be taking part in continuous strike action after its members “overwhelmingly” rejected a new pay deal.
The initial offer was described as 6% by Unite, while Bakkavor has claimed that it proposed an increase of 7.8% to its lowest paid employees and 6.4% across all other grades, as well as a £350 per head bonus.
However, both Bakkavor and Unite have now announced that the workers have accepted an offer.
Bakkavor said the accepted deal was its “final offer” put on the table in October, although the firm did not provide exact details, while Unite described it as “improved”.
The striking workers will return to work on 14 March as part of an agreement with management.
“We are pleased that Unite the Union has called an end to its strike action in Spalding with its union’s members now accepting the final offer we put forward to them in October 2024,” read a Bakkavor statement.
“We are delighted that this draws an end to a very difficult time for all colleagues at Spalding. We would like to once again thank our colleagues and customers for their support during this period.”
Meanwhile, Unite regional officer Sam Hennessey said: “Following an improved offer from Bakkavor, our members were balloted and voted to accept the offer and return to work after a lengthy period of industrial action.
“Unite will continue to campaign for improved terms and conditions for all workers across the food and drink manufacturing sector where low pay causes financial hardship for thousands across Lincolnshire.”
