Yorkshire Factory Strike Threatens UK Beverage Supplies

A strike at Lockwood Haulage Ltd in Yorkshire could lead to shortages of Coca-Cola, beer, whisky, and wine across the UK. Unite members are launching industrial action over a disputed pay offer that workers claim is inadequate.

The affected employees have not received a pay rise since October 2023, and their union argues that a one per cent increase offered by Lockwood management would leave them financially worse off. The company proposes replacing yearly salary increases with an attendance-based bonus scheme, which would pay £250 per quarter.

Sharon Graham, general secretary of Unite, described the offer as 'a further kick in the teeth' and accused Lockwood management of insulting their members. Jessica Sangha, regional officer for Unite, added that industrial action can be avoided if Lockwood comes back with improvements to the pay offer.