Factory strike that threatened UK supply of Coca Cola bottles dropped following new wage deal

Strike action at a factory in Wigan that makes bottles for Coca Cola has been called off.

Union members have reached a pay deal with bosses at Alpla UK plastics factory in Golborne after 150 workers threatened to withdraw.

The factory makes plastic bottles and containers for some of the country’s top brands, including Britvic, Coca Cola, PZ Cussons, Lever, Arla Foods, Core Ingredients, Princes Foods and others.

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The Unite union said workers at the plant would receive a 6% pay rise under a new two-year deal.

Unite General Secretary Sharon Graham said: “This is a great result for our members at the Golborne factory in Alpla UK and shows that when union members come together and fight for a better deal they can win.

“This is another example of how Unite wins to ensure better jobs, better wages and better conditions for its members. “

The deal will see staff under £ 25,000 a year receive a 4% pay rise backdated to January, while staff over £ 25,000 will receive a 3% raise, also backdated to January.

From 2022, all staff will benefit from a 3.25% salary increase.

Workers will also benefit from a one percent increase in employer pension contributions and improved overtime conditions, according to the union.

Unite Regional Manager Richard O’Brien said: “This result shows what can be achieved through a strong union organization, which is why we are urging workers looking to improve their pay and terms and conditions to join Unite and encourage their colleagues to do the same.

“Unite looks forward to working productively with Alpla going forward in the best interests of our members, as the company continues to grow stronger. “

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