The Tetley workforce is engaging in industrial action due to unresolved pay issues.
- Over 150 workers have initiated a strike at Tetley’s Teeside plant as a protest against low wages.
- Management’s response has included legal actions, heightening tensions between employees and the company.
- The GMB Union has accused Tetley’s management of using intimidation tactics against strikers.
- Workers demand a pay rise that supports a decent standard of living, as negotiations continue.
The situation at Tetley’s Teeside facility has escalated as over 150 workers commenced a strike, driven by a longstanding pay dispute. This marks the first industrial action taken by the workforce at this plant, reflecting deep-rooted frustration over wage levels. The workforce predominantly consists of female employees, who have voiced grievances regarding what they describe as ‘being paid a pittance.’
Further industrial action is anticipated, with another strike planned for 10 October. The GMB Union highlights that there have been ‘tensions’ between workers and management, with allegations that police were called during previous demonstrations to address what management described as ‘intimidating’ behaviour by the striking workers.
In a further development, Tetley is reportedly pursuing legal action against the workers, accusing them of trespass. Paul Clark, a GMB organiser, voiced strong criticism, stating: ‘These women work their fingers to the bone for this company, providing the UK with its favourite cup of tea. But they’re paid a pittance and it is just not right.’ His remarks underline the workers’ resolve to continue their strike until a satisfactory resolution is achieved.
The recent acceptance of a new pay offer by Tetley workers in August 2023 failed to resolve the underlying issues, according to the union. The GMB has stated that the offer ‘had a long way to go’ in meeting workers’ demands for fair compensation, suggesting that the upcoming strikes are part of a broader fight for ‘pay justice.’
The Tetley pay dispute remains unresolved as workers continue their campaign for equitable wages.
