Wigan Heinz truck drivers secure major pay rise of up to 36%
A landmark deal has also given some Heinz drivers additional holidays
Last updated 14th Oct 2021
Unite has secured a deal which will see many Heinz truck drivers earnings increase by 25% to 36%.
The landmark deal, which will affect 26 drivers employed by distribution company Wincanton, has seen an end the 'two-tier workforce on the Heinz distribution contract in Wigan'.
Unite general secretary, Sharon Graham, said: "Unite's members on the Heinz contract stuck together and won these much deserved changes. This should send a message to employers across the distribution sector that when you fail to pay our members the rate for the job, we will challenge you and we will win."
Drivers who are currently on the so called 'second generation contracts' will receive an additional five days holiday a year, in addition to a pay rise.
The new agreement will mean that the entire workforce will be now entitled to sick pay equivalent to six months full pay and then six months half pay.
Unite regional officer Kenny Rowe said: Unite is dedicated to repeating its success on the Heinz contract across the UK to ensure that workers are paid a fair rate for the job.
“Not only have we ended the two–tier workforce on this contract but we have ensured that all the drivers will benefit equally in future negotiations over pay and conditions.”
Unite believes the widespread use of ‘second generation contracts’ is a significant factor in the current shortage of HGV drivers.