Unite, the UK’s leading union, has secured a pay rise worth just under 14 per cent for around 100 HGV drivers at premium aviation catering firm DO & CO at Heathrow.
The rise is a result of a pay dispute that began after 1,800 workers in various roles transferred from Gate Gourmet and DHL Supply Service Chain to DO & CO in the summer of 2020.
Unite members had voted for strike action over pay disparities between HGV drivers, with Gate Gourmet and DHL drivers retaining a higher rate of pay under TUPE transfer legislation.
As a result of the deal, new starters and drivers who started at DO & CO before the summer 2020 transfer will receive a pay rise worth nearly 14 per cent. Those who transferred from Gate Gourmet and DHL will see a wage uplift of 6 per cent, with pay now balanced for HGV drivers across the company.
In addition, all drivers will now be covered under Unite’s recognition agreement with DO & CO. Previously it only applied to drivers who had worked at Gate Gourmet and DHL.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Our members at DO & CO stood firm in their demands for equal pay and their determination and solidarity has resulted in an excellent result.
“Now that we are the recognised union for all drivers at the company, Unite can ensure that the jobs, pay and conditions of our DO & CO members continue to be protected and improved.”
Unite regional officer Shereen Higginson said: “The result is a prime of example of why workers who are looking for higher wages and better conditions should join Unite and get their colleagues to do the same.”
