Imminent strike action at Menzies Distribution has been suspended after the company made an improved pay offer, Unite said today.

Members of the union were to hold two 24-hour strikes on the 23 and 26 September over what it has described as a “pitiful” pay offer.

According to the union the dispute is about a pay change implemented by the operator in April, which sees workers - pickers, packers and delivery drivers in the main -receiving £7.25 an hour – 5p more than the national living wage.

However members have suspended action while they vote on an improved pay offer. The result of the latest ballet is expected on 30 September.

Last week a spokesman for Menzies Distribution said management had been engaged in ongoing meetings with Unite regarding the dispute, which involves 300 union members from a workforce of 2,800.

“Menzies Distribution has robust contingency plans in the event that any industrial action by the union goes ahead over the coming weeks, and we remain confident that no disruption to services will be experienced by retailers or publishers,” he said.