Hatfield XPO workers on Arla diary contract achieve company sick pay scheme

Around 500 Hatfield HGV drivers and warehouse workers have secured a much-improved pay offer after balloting in favour of strike action.

The workers, who are employed by XPO to warehouse and transport Arla dairy products, will benefit from a 3.4 per cent pay rise as well as the introduction of a company sick pay scheme. Previously workers had to rely on statutory sick pay if they became ill.

The company's initial pay offer was 2.5 per cent, with no company sick pay.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “XPO workers achieved this pay victory by standing strong in their union and voting for strike action. Defending and improving workers’ jobs, pay and conditions is Unite’s top priority.”

The workers voted in favour of taking industrial action but the dispute was resolved without any strikes taking place.

As well as a pay rise and company sick pay, XPO drivers at Hatfield will also receive an extra day of annual leave.

Unite regional officer Perry Wright said: “From the outset, this was about more than a pay rise. Our members wanted proper financial protection when they were ill, rather than having to rely on statutory sick pay.

"The company initially resisted introducing a sick-pay scheme, but through the determination of our members and workplace representatives, we have secured a new scheme alongside a consolidated, backdated pay increase.”

ENDS

For media enquires ONLY contact senior Unite communications officer Ryan Fletcher on 07849 090215 or 020 3371 2065.

Email: ryan.fletcher@unitetheunion.org

Unite is the UK and Ireland’s leading union fighting to protect and advance jobs, pay and conditions for members working across all sectors of the economy. The general secretary is Sharon Graham.