Coffinmakers begin strike action at Co-op factory in Glasgow
Workers are demanding a pay deal which matches inflation
Last updated 31st Oct 2022
Coffinmakers striking at the Co-op's only factory in the UK, in Glasgow, say they are "resolute" in their campaign for an improved pay offer as they begin a week-long walk out.
Workers at the facility in Bogmoor Place have rejected a pay offer which their union, Unite, said is a "real-terms" pay cut.
Willie Thomson, the union's regional officer, said the offer equated to less than 5% when compared with the rate of inflation, according to the retail price index (RPI), at 12.3%.
The walk-out is expected to last until November 7 - however, the Co-op, one of the UK's largest funeral directors, was notified of further industrial action, beginning on November 14, if the dispute has not been settled.
No shortage of coffins
The Co-op previously said the strikes will have "no impact" on their ability to support bereaved families, and said a strong supply of coffins is available.
Mr Thomson said workers were prepared to take as much industrial action as necessary to reach a fair agreement.
He said: "Our members are resolute in their determination to see the Co-op, an employer who likes to say that they do things better than some other employers, come to the table with a sensible offer.
"As well as the strike action today, which will last for the entire week, our members have further served a notice this morning of the Co-op of another week of action, which will kick off on November 14, should we not resolve the dispute by then.
"I think that shows their determination to win an offer that protects their living standards at the highest inflation that we've seen for 40 years."
Acas talks
On behalf of staff, Unite are meeting with Acas - an organisation which works with employers and employees on disputes - and the Co-op, where they will "hopefully seek a resolution".
Mr Thomson added: "Our members are taking industrial action today because they have been offered a pay rise that is significantly below the rate of inflation at a time when we're facing the biggest cost-of-living crisis in over 40 years.
"Our members are seeing the cost of food, of fuel, of their mortgages rising. They are here today because the Co-op is not making a significant offer to them that reflects the reality of how they're seeing their costs rising."