Strike action at an Argos distribution centre which could have seriously disrupted Christmas deliveries has been averted after unions agreed a new pay deal.
Earlier this month, the Unite union announced that UPS shunter and lorry drivers working at the retailer’s flagship distribution centre at Barton, near Burton, were set to walk out before Christmas over a lengthy pay dispute.
In particular, the 16-day strike, which was due to begin next week, would have affected the delivery of electrical goods.
However, Unite has now confirmed that the strike has been called off after securing a pay deal worth about 4.5%.
More than 40 union members, who manoeuvre loads around the Barton distribution centre, voted overwhelmingly (90%) in favour of the pay deal offered by UPS management, following talks with the conciliation service Acas earlier this week.
Strike action over the festive period has now been called off, with back pay and the agreed increase set to be paid before Christmas.
Unite regional officer Rick Coyle said: “Our members were determined to secure a fair deal and because of their solidarity a package worth around 4.5% has been secured.
“We are very pleased that disruption to Argos’ customers will now be averted and work can carry on over the Christmas period as normal.
“Unite looks forward to working constructively with UPS and Argos in the future.”
