Wakefield drivers' strike threat lifted after agreement reached over pay and conditions
A planned strike involving hundreds of HGV drivers at a major distribution depot in Wakefield has been called off after an agreement was reached over pay, conditions and the use of agency staff.
The dispute involved nearly 500 drivers working across distribution sites in Wakefield, Stockton-on-Tees and Northwich, Cheshire.
Workers had voted in favour of industrial action following concerns about increasing reliance on temporary workers and proposals affecting the employment terms of future recruits.
The drivers are employed by Eddie Stobart and supply Morrisons supermarkets across the north of England.
Unite said workers were concerned that agency staff were not covered by the same collective bargaining arrangements as permanent employees and that new directly employed drivers could be hired on different pay and conditions.
Following negotiations, Eddie Stobart agreed to reduce its reliance on temporary workers and increase the number of permanent staff.
The company also confirmed that newly recruited drivers will receive the same hourly pay rates, allowances, holiday entitlement and sick pay provisions as existing colleagues.
New employees will also be covered by the collective bargaining agreement with Unite.
The strike ballot concluded on June 4, but talks between the union and the company resulted in an agreement before any industrial action took place.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Eddie Stobart was gradually replacing its unionised Morrisons workforce with individuals on insecure contracts and significantly diminished pay, terms and conditions.
"The drivers strong strike response put an end to that – well done to them. Unite will not tolerate any employer seeking to union-bust or undermine our members’ wages or employment standards.”
Unite regional officer Neil Howells added: “This win is another reminder that workers are stronger when they stand together. If you want better wages and working conditions join Unite today and get your colleagues to do the same.”
The agreement means no industrial action will take place at the Wakefield depot, with operations continuing as normal.
The firm operates more 2,700 vehicles, around 3,500 trailers, a total of 43 operating centres throughout the UK, and employs around 5,000 people.
The Express has approached Eddie Stobart for comment.