The Unite union has suspended strike action planned for today (5 June) by 51 warehouse workers at a DHL Supply Chain-run site in West Thurrock, Essex to allow a "window of opportunity for positive talks".

The union-represented employees unanimously voted to stage a 24-hour walkout last month over terms and conditions after the decision to transfer the DHL contract and staff to NFT Distribution on 6 June.

Read more:

Unite is unhappy about NFT having no union recognition; a change in shift patterns for the workers; the increased travel distance to new site at Tilbury; pension provision were poorer; and a failure to guarantee pay, terms and conditions long term.

However following discussions, Unite said the strike had been postponed to allow a “window of opportunity for talks with NFT Distribution bosses”.

A spokesman for DHL Supply Chain said: “We are pleased that this week’s planned industrial action by Unite has been suspended. Talks continue with the aim of achieving a satisfactory outcome at the earliest opportunity.”

Unite regional officer Mary Hackwood said: “We have suspended the strike tomorrow as an act of goodwill to allow for a window of opportunity for positive talks with the NFT Distribution management.

“But should constructive proposals not be forthcoming from the company, we will have no hesitation in balloting our members again for strike action.”

The union previously warned that should strike action take place, it would disrupt supplies for the warehouse’s current customer Upfield, producer of plant-based spreads.

NFT Distribution declined to comment.

Topics