Matalan has avoided potential strike action as staff in its Knowsley warehouse and distribution centre voted to approve a new pay deal.
Last week it was reported that supervisor staff at the site stood to receive a £1500 bonus alongside a two per cent wage increase, while warehouse staff saw an increase of 3.17 per cent.
Workers union the GMB said in response to the proposed deal: “Warehouse staff work just as hard as supervisors – and should receive comparable rewards.
“It‘s up to our members now as to whether they will accept Matalan‘s latest offering. If not, strike action could be on the cards.”
Today, 43 per cent of staff belonging to the GMB were balloted and narrowly voted to accept the annualised pay increase.
According to the union “the vote passed by three votes after a recount”.
READ MORE: 700 Matalan staff could strike over pay dispute
A spokesperson for Matalan said: “This deal will provide warehouse operatives with a 3.17 per cent annualised pay increase – higher than the rate of inflation, and more than other comparable businesses in the region. This is the best award we have been able to make in several years.
“Matalan‘s first priority has always been to act in the best interests of the whole workforce – which is why we are delighted to announce that we will be implementing the pay deal in full as soon as possible.
“The annual pay increase will be backdated to the start of April and will appear in workers‘ next pay packets.”
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