UPS staff at London depot vote for strike action

Unite members at UPS's London depot in Camden have voted for strike action, something the union claims could severely disrupt the operator’s Christmas deliveries within the capital.

Unite and UPS are at loggerheads over the union's claim that the 120 drivers and loaders at the operator’s Camden depot are being forced to handle unreasonable workloads.

UPS has denied the claims, but despite its efforts to resolve the issue 91% of the 120 drivers and loaders at the depot have now voted for industrial action.

Unite is also angry at the suspension of a union shop steward after the notice of ballot was issued to the operator last month.

Unite regional officer Onay Kasab said: “Our members have sent  a message, loud and clear, to the company that we will take strike action, if our members’ legitimate grievances are not addressed.”

In response, the operator said: “UPS can confirm that employees at the UPS London Central Centre in Camden have balloted for industrial action.

Negotiations are currently on-going with Unite union, and we are hopeful that we can reach a mutually satisfactory agreement."

UPS management and Unite are due to meet again on the 20 November, with Unite warning that if a way forward is not found, strike action will take place before the end of November.