Wincanton drivers and shunters on the JD Sports contract in Rochdale are to receive a 10.75% pay increase, according to their trade union Unite.
It said the deal covers over 50 staff for the 12 months until 31 March 2026 and that it would use the pay award as a benchmark for other Wincanton drivers around the country on contracts with UK retailers.
Wincanton said it was pleased to have agreed a pay deal and pointed out that it was based on a 4% rise in pay, plus an existing discretionary bonus.
The logistics company landed the contract with the sports giant in 2024 and sees it manage the national transport operations for over 560 retail stores.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “This is a huge win for Unite workers in Rochdale.
“I’m delighted they are getting a deserved pay rise that recognises their hard work and contribution.”
Unite regional officer Mark Williams added: “Unite gained recognition for the workers last year.
“We have since managed to recruit more members as workers see what we are doing to improve the site, pay and working conditions.”
A Wincanton spokeswoman said: “Following constructive discussions regarding this year’s pay negotiations, we are pleased to have reached agreement with Unite for colleagues based at our Rochdale site for the next 12 months.
“It is important to note that this agreement is based on a 4% increase in basic pay, plus an existing discretionary bonus which has been consolidated into base pay.”
