Supply uncertainty after Bidvest Logistics drivers agree to strike

More than 80 per cent of GMB members employed as drivers have agreed to strike at the Bidvest Logistics site in Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire.

The GMB claimed workers at three Bidvest Logistics sites – in Banbury, Oldham and Larbert, Scotland – are paid significantly more than those at the Hoddesdon site.

Hoddesdon staff work on deliveries for Pret a Manger, KFC, Nando's, Zizzi and Greene King, among others.

Bidvest Logistics is part of the Bidvest Group, which includes Bidvest 3663 in the UK.

Pay parity​

According to the GMB, Bidvest can avert the strike action by discussing the implementation of pay-parity with Banbury.

Regional organiser Karen Lally said the company has flatly turned down the GMB’s reasonable demand for pay parity with Banbury.

She said: “We are not demanding more than the Banbury drivers, although there is a higher cost of living for where our members work, which is mainly within the M25 and the Greater London area.

“Despite offering such parity a couple of years ago, Bidvest Logistics flatly refused to follow this up by properly discussing and addressing the real issue of pay with GMB and the members at Hoddesdon.

Lally added: “Bidvest Logistics is treating Hoddesdon colleagues like second class citizens. The company have never said it cannot afford to pay, it has said it is not willing to pay. This is not acceptable.” 

Best solution​

Shaun Foley, managing director of Bidvest Logistics, said: “We are aware of planned strike action at our Hoddeson depot and are consulting with employees and GMB in order to find the best solution moving forward.

“Our salaries are benchmarked for the area and we are committed to providing a safe and fair working environment for all.”

Dates for strike action have yet to be announced.