Muller HGV drivers begin series of strikes over rota changes

Yogurt and milk firm Muller has been accused of excessive rota demands among its HGV drivers who have now gone out on strike in a row over employment terms.

The company did not respond to motortransport.co.uk’s requests for comment, but the Unite union said 70 truckers at its Stonehouse factory in Gloucestershire had begun a series of strikes after accusing Muller of reneging on an agreement it made earlier this year.

The staff, responsible for delivering milk, flavoured milk and potted cream to M&S and Waitrose stores nationwide, stopped working on 25 August for three days and will strike again from 1 September unless the dispute is resolved.

Supplies to Sainsbury’s and Tesco could also be disrupted as they also receive deliveries from the Stonehouse plant.

The union said rota changes imposed by the company would negatively impact the workers’ quality of life.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “The company has deliberately broken an agreement ratified with Unite earlier this year that expressly stated rotas would not change.

“Unite will defend our members’ jobs, pay and conditions with the full force of the union. Muller signed an agreement – it must stick to it.”

Unite regional officer Amy Roberts said: “Muller is acting in very bad faith and this behaviour will now impact their customers.

“Our members are resolute in their determination to force the company to abide by the original agreement.”