AG Barr, the renowned Irn-Bru maker, plans to halt its direct-to-store delivery services, impacting jobs.
- A review led to the closure decision of Barr Direct, affecting around 100 positions mostly at the Cumbernauld site.
- Staff will undergo consultations with the potential creation of some new roles amid the operational shift.
- Drivers involved are notably from Cumbernauld, following recent labour disputes over pay and conditions.
- Unite union accuses AG Barr and partners of illegal practices amidst a prevailing workers’ strike.
AG Barr has announced the cessation of its Barr Direct service, which has provided drinks delivery directly to retail outlets. Following an extensive review, the company intends to encourage customers to purchase products through local wholesalers rather than directly from the manufacturer. This strategic shift will lead to the last delivery of Barr Direct being made by the end of June, a move that has generated significant concerns regarding job security among employees involved in the current distribution model.
The detailed review has resulted in approximately 100 employees, mostly based at the company’s depot in Cumbernauld, Scotland, entering a consultation period. According to the company’s spokesperson, there is a proposition to transition towards an expanded field sales team that would be responsible for managing relationships with wholesalers as part of AG Barr’s continuous growth strategy. While the company anticipates that new field roles could be established, the specifics remain subject to consultations with the workforce.
The majority of individuals whose positions are at risk are drivers based at the Cumbernauld facility, an area that has previously been embroiled in industrial action. A strike was recently initiated by 11 drivers at the same location, stemming from disputes over pay and working conditions. AG Barr had indicated its disappointment in this industrial action, asserting that they had presented what they believed to be a fair and competitive pay package.
In a move intertwined with these operational changes, the Unite union has accused AG Barr, along with its contractors Eddie Stobart and Streamline, of engaging in what it describes as ‘illegal activity’. This accusation comes amidst ongoing tensions and industrial disputes at the Cumbernauld site. As the situation unfolds, it highlights the complexities and challenges within the logistics and warehousing sectors, particularly in relation to labour relations and employment security.
In conclusion, AG Barr’s strategic pivot reflects significant industry challenges, with job security and industrial relations at the forefront.
