More strike action by Fox's Glacier Mint workers in York
GMB Union members are locked in a row with management over pay and terms and conditions
Fox’s Glacier Mint workers will take a full day of strike action today (April 14) in an ongoing row over what the GMB union is calling the company's fire and rehire threat.
Staff at Valeo York, who also make Poppets and humbugs, mint assortments butter mints, rhubarb and custards and lemon sherberts for well-known supermarkets including M&S, will be joined by the Yorkshire Polar Bear and local councillors.
Workers have allegedly been told by bosses they will be fired and re-hired unless they agree to a new contract which the GMB Union claim reduces staff holiday and pay.
A mass GMB poll showed more than three quarters of the public want fire and rehire to be made illegal.
Katherine Mitchell, GMB Organiser, said:
“Our message to Valeo is simple - get back round the table to negotiate with us.
“All these workers want a fair day’s pay for fair day’s work in a safe and respectful environment.
“They are proud and skilled and want to make factory more profitable and produce high quality products.
“While people are enjoying sweet treats this Easter - consider workers that make them."
It's the latest strike action by GMB members - with the first walkout taking place last month (March).
Statement on behalf of Valeo Snackfoods:
“We engaged in very positive and constructive conversations with our colleagues as part of a routine annual pay review process.
"GMB only represent a very small proportion of staff on site however, the staff forum, which represents all 200 employees on site, voted overwhelmingly in favour of the deal presented which included pay increases across the business.”