Parcelforce Worldwide is facing the threat of disruption, with Unite members set to vote on whether to adopt a 'work to rule' policy at the delivery firm due to a pay dispute.

The union has criticised the Royal Mail subsidiary’s offer of a 2.8% pay rise, backdated to July 2014, for  junior and middle management, claiming it shows contempt for  Parcelforce employees who are paid less than their counterparts in other parts of the group.

In response, a Parcelforce spokeswoman said: “We are disappointed that Unite members in Parcelforce Worldwide have voted against our pay offer for junior and middle managers.

"We believe our final offer of 2.8%, backdated to July 2014, is a good offer, which is above inflation and compares well to others in the industry.”

She added that despite lengthy discussions, Parcelforce had been unable to reach agreement with Unite and intends to implement the pay award in March salaries.

Unite has members at more than 50 Parcelforce depots in the UK, and has claimed that more than 80% rejected the pay deal.

Brian Scott, Unite CMA officer, added: “Unite members at Parcelforce deserve and expect the same as their colleagues in Royal Mail and that has just not happened. This demonstrates a contempt for workers and Unite members.

“We now have no alternative but to seek a ballot for a work to rule. There’s no doubt this action will have a significant impact on Parcelforce customers.”

The union is calling on Parcelforce to enter into further negotiations to resolve the dispute.

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