Bread shortages loom as Bristol Hovis drivers strike over pay dispute
Hovis drivers in Bristol take action demanding pay enhancements similar to Belfast depot
Bread shortages are anticipated in supermarkets and retail outlets across the South West and extending into the West Midlands as approximately 60 Hovis distribution drivers in Bristol strike indefinitely over a pay dispute.
The workers, who are based at the Avonmouth site in Bristol, supply the region with Hovis products such as bread, burger buns, and muffins.
Despite being offered a three per cent pay rise, Unite the union argues this is a real terms pay cut, given the current Retail Price Index at 3.4 per cent.
While additional benefits have been offered to workers at the Belfast depot, including commission and holiday premiums, the Bristol workers are determined to fight for similar enhancements.
Unite's members will commence their strike this Thursday, 24th September, potentially leaving shops in the region without Hovis products.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham expressed, "Hovis is owned by an incredibly profitable company and can more than afford to pay the same rates to its workers at Avonmouth. Instead of favouring one group, it needs to stop prioritising greed and extend benefits to other workers. Our members have their full support in their fight for a fair deal."
In July, Associated British Foods acquired Hovis in a £75 million deal. ABF's latest report detailed an adjusted operating profit of £1.73 billion.
Unite regional officer John Sweeney stated, "We know shoppers will be concerned to hear of bread shortages, but it is entirely the fault of Hovis who has come up with this half-baked pay offer.
"Our members believe the only action that will ensure the business gets back around the table and has meaningful dialogue is strike action. Hovis can prevent this disruption but that relies on it coming back to talks, with a meaningful offer."
A Hovis Bakeries spokesperson commented, "Pay negotiations for some of our employees at Avonmouth started back in April, and since then we’ve discussed several possible solutions with union representatives.
"We’re disappointed that some of our employees are now planning on taking industrial action, especially given the well-publicised economic challenges facing the UK bakery sector.
"We believe the offer on the table is fair and responsible, amounting to a 3% salary increase for the year. Negotiations continue with our employees and their union representatives."