Planned strike action at the GKN Automotive factory in Birmingham has been called off.
Trade union members at the engineering plant in Erdington were due to begin a walkout next Monday over proposals announced in January to close the site next year and move work overseas.
Unite has now said its members will not be taking part in any industrial action before at least October 18 as parties vow to return to the table for further discussions.
The factory in Chester Road makes drivelines for the UK's automotive industry and more than 500 jobs are under threat if the closure plan goes ahead.
The wider GKN group, whose global headquarters are in Redditch and which is one of the UK's oldest engineering firms, was sold to Birmingham-based turnaround investor Melrose Industries in 2018 for £8.1 billion.
Unite said it had met with representatives from Melrose which led to there being an immediate moratorium on work and machinery being taken out of the factory.
A future meeting is also set to take place as trade unionists and staff seek to keep the plant open.
Unite national officer Des Quinn said: "In the spirit of goodwill, the planned strike action has been suspended to allow for talks about the future of the factory with key stakeholders to take place.
"It is hoped that all sides can use this window of opportunity to secure a long-term future for the factory.
"Unite is dedicated to advancing the jobs, pay and conditions of its members and will fight back against any efforts to diminish workers' living standards."
GKN said in a statement: "GKN Automotive welcomes Unite's decision to call a halt to proposed industrial action at our Birmingham plant.
"Our goal continues to be securing the best outcome for our people."
