Strike action at Weetabix’s Burton Latimer and Corby factories is set to begin on Tuesday, following a breakdown in pay negotiations between the company and the Usdaw union. Employees will stage protests over three days, voicing dissatisfaction with the company’s pay offer. Usdaw stated that it had attempted to reach a compensation agreement, but Weetabix did not present a proposal deemed acceptable by the workforce. The union’s ballot saw an overwhelming 89% of members voting in favor of industrial action, highlighting the depth of frustration among staff.

The dispute centers on demands for a pay increase, with union representatives arguing that the company’s current offer fails to reflect the rising cost of living and the contributions of its workforce. Usdaw regional secretary Gavin Dadley expressed regret that management had not improved the initial proposal, which had already been rejected by members. He urged Weetabix to make a new offer, even at this late stage, to avert the strike and emphasized the union’s commitment to a negotiated solution.

Weetabix, for its part, has expressed disappointment over the industrial action but reaffirmed its commitment to investing in its workforce and providing competitive wages. A company spokesperson emphasized that Weetabix is dedicated to finding a fair resolution that benefits its broader workforce of 1,200 employees. The company also stressed its willingness to maintain ongoing discussions with staff and their representatives, aiming for an equitable outcome.

The strike follows previous industrial actions at Weetabix, including a 24-hour stoppage in 2021 over pay for unsocial hours. The current three-day protest is expected to disrupt production at both sites, potentially affecting the supply of Weetabix products. Both sides remain at odds, with the union pressing for a better pay deal and the company seeking a resolution that balances employee demands with business sustainability.