Over 180 workers belonging to the Unite union employed by Suntory Beverage & Food in Coleford, Gloucestershire, will begin a week of strike action from Monday due to a dispute over pay.
Workers received a two year pay deal effective from 1 April 2022, with a commitment from the employer to review the second year’s increase, should inflation exceed 5% between January to June 2023.
The union noted that the inflation rate had far exceeded this, but Suntory, which produces brands such as Lucozade and Ribena, had not met expectations in relation to the commitment.
Unite general secretary, Sharon Graham, said: “Suntory is awash with cash and it is reprehensible that it has failed to give our members a fair pay increase.
“Unite does what it says on the trade union tin and always puts the jobs, pay and conditions of its members first. The workers at Suntory have Unite’s complete support.”
Workers will now take part in strikes for the first time at The Royal Forest Factory since the 1970s. Unite suggested that this could swiftly lead to shortages of Lucozade and Ribena and result in empty supermarket shelves.
Unite regional officer, Michael Hobbs, added: “The strike action will inevitably result in shortages of consumers’ favourite drinks, but Suntory has brought this strike on itself due to its unreasonable actions.
“Our members have been pushed to their limit because of the continuous disrespect shown by Suntory and its inability to address the current impact of the cost of living crisis on its workers.”
In response to Unite’s move, Karl Ottomar, Supply Chain Director at Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I, said: “We are in active discussions with our trade union and our employee representatives to secure a fair and positive outcome for everyone. While we have been notified of a one-week strike at our manufacturing site beginning 5th February 2024, we hope to reach an agreement shortly so that we can focus our energy on looking forward.
“Our current remuneration package makes us a very competitive employer in the region. The employees taking part have received two pay increases in addition to a one-off additional payment since 2022 in recognition of their work and to support with the cost-of-living crisis.
“We have also invested heavily in the modernisation of our historic Coleford site, including a £13m bottling line in 2020.
“To support our trade customers, we have business continuity plans to ensure minimal disruption through this period. During this week, the factory will remain open with production lines still producing drinks for customers nationwide.
“SBF GB&I remains committed to supporting all our employees, suppliers and customers, working with fairness and consistency.”
