According to Unite, around 100 workers at the Scottish facility have “emphatically backed” strike action as part of an ongoing dispute over jobs, pay and conditions.
The union said it will announce specific strike dates in the coming days, adding that the action could “severely impact” operations at the distillery.
The proposed industrial action is linked to the global drinks giant’s plans to cut hundreds of jobs across its Scottish operations as part of wider restructuring proposals.
Cameronbridge is Europe’s largest grain distillery, employing around 200 people, with more than 70 roles currently under review.
Over the last financial year, the Guinness and Smirnoff owner cut close to 2,000 roles as chief executive Debra Crew continued to implement a wide-ranging cost-cutting plan.
Opened in 1824, the facility produces a number of whiskies within Diageo’s portfolio, including Haig Club, Cameron Brig, Johnnie Walker, J&B, Bell’s, Vat 69, White Horse and Black & White.
It also manufactures some of Diageo’s best-known gins and white spirits, including Gordon’s, Tanqueray, Smirnoff, Pimm’s and Archers.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Diageo is drinking in the last chance saloon. Strikes will be announced in the coming days unless Diageo swiftly changes course.
“Diageo is raking in hundreds of millions of profit and there is no justification for slashing hundreds of jobs across its operations.”
In a statement issued to the media, Unite accused the business of failing to “properly consult on the job cuts at Cameronbridge” and said it had provided “no explanation and minimal detail” on the proposed redundancies.
The union also raised concerns over worker safety and wellbeing, arguing that roles are being cut without any corresponding reduction in production at the distillery. Unite members at the site include production operators and cask handlers.
Diageo has around 3,000 employees across its distilleries and bottling plants in Scotland.
In its latest registered accounts, Diageo Scotland recorded an after-tax profit of £595 million in 2025, compared with £736 million in 2024.
Unite industrial officer Dougie Orchardson added: “Diageo need to listen to its workers or the distillery will be brought to a standstill.
“Industrial action will inevitably result in supplies and shortages of many people’s favourite drinks. This is directly a result of Diageo planning to boost profits at the expense of its loyal workforce.”
