West Lothian workers of some of Britain’s best-known food and drink brands, including Brewdog, Pepsico, Princes and KP snacks are being balloted over strike action.
The GMB Union said DS Smith now faces a “Christmas logistics nightmare” as workers get ready to vote.
Workers in five sites, including in Livingston, are taking part in the ballot
The ballot closes November 2, with any strike likely to take place later that month
The union says DS Smith has refused to increase an offer of a three per cent consolidated increase plus a non-consolidated payment of £760 for 2022-23.
ndy Prendergast, GMB National Secretary, said: “DS Smith workers say the cost of living crush has made them £200 a month worse off, through no fault of their own.
“These are the same staff who worked through the pandemic, helping to keep the business afloat.
“Now workers need the company to recognise their efforts with a decent pay offer that helps confront soaring inflation and eye-watering energy bills in the months ahead, rather than hanging them out to dry.”
“DS Smith can afford to do better.”
A spokesperson for DS Smith said: “As with any matter of this kind, DS Smith does not comment publicly on the details of a confidential process. Discussions are ongoing and we will continue to work together with all those involved.”
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