Strike action underway at Dumfriesshire meat factory
Picket lines will be formed, with action planned until the 18th of September
Last updated 9th Nov 2023
Nearly 200 workers are now undertaking strike action against a local meat processing factory near Sanquhar beginning today, the 28th of August.
Unite the Union have confirmed that 180 employees of Brown Brothers Ltd in Kelloholm are taking action after refusing a pay offer equivalent to the real living wage at £10.90 an hour.
Three days of consecutive action will be taking place on three occasions, over three weeks.
It’s understood an ‘overtime ban’ will also be in place until the 18th of September.
Dumfriesshire based firm Browns Brothers Ltd produce and manufacture quality cooked and sliced meats, serving a range of consumers, including supermarkets and schools.
Action will be disruptive to normal business practise
Paul Bennett, an industrial officer for Unite the Union said: “Our members have no option but to take strike action because what’s currently on the table from Browns does nothing to help them make ends meet.
“The company is in a very healthy financial position due to the hard work of our members, so it’s scandalous that they are treating the workforce with such contempt.
"Strike action will take place over a number of weeks and Browns should be under no illusion as to the determination of our members to secure a fair pay deal.”
In a statement, Browns Brothers Ltd said:
“2023/24 pay negotiation with the unite site representatives and regional organiser started early in the year with a significant request from the union for a 33% increase on base wage from £9.75 to £13.00 per hour.
"This unviable request was countered by Brown brothers numerous times over the last 6 months culminating in the last offer from Brown brothers to move all employees over 18 years old to £10.90 per hour base ( this is the Real living wage) 11.8% increase. This is in effect a minimum of £2093 per year increase based on 35 hours per week.
"We agreed that we would back date this to April 1st 2023 , in addition we will then pay the 2024/25 real living wage from April next year. Over time rates apply over 35 hours Monday to Saturday would be £16.35 and on Sunday shift for overtime pays £21.80.
"Disappointingly when this has been put forward to ballot by the union, a majority of the members voted to reject it and industrial action has commenced.”
It’s understood union members will be forming picket lines at either end of the factory throughout the duration of strike action.