GMB union members at Crane Building Services & Utilities in Hitchin have successfully negotiated a pay deal following a five-day strike.
- After initial resistance, a 7% pay increase offer was put forward on 3rd June, leading to a swift resolution.
- A significant 90% turnout of union members voted in favour of the proposed pay deal, ceasing the planned nine-day strike.
- The negotiation highlights the power of collective action, as stated by GMB London region organiser Andre Marques.
- The agreed pay increase will be backdated to January 2024, with an additional bonus conditional on meeting performance targets.
In the wake of a proactive stance taken by GMB union members at Crane Building Services & Utilities, the management extended an improved pay offer of 7% during negotiations on Monday, 3rd June 2024. This came after five days of concerted strike action, illustrating a strategic approach by the workers to press for their demands effectively. The strike, having commenced on 28th May, was initially set to continue for nine days but was curtailed following the positive developments in negotiations.
The pay ballot conducted on 4th June saw an impressive 90% of union members participating in the vote, indicating robust engagement and solidarity among the workforce. Of these participants, a notable 60% voted in favour of accepting the 7% pay increase, thereby signalling the end of the industrial action. This resolution underscores the decisive role of organised labour in advocating for favorable employment terms.
Andre Marques, the GMB London region organiser, remarked on the successful outcome, emphasising the strength and resolve displayed by the union members throughout the negotiations. He noted that the members’ unity and determination were pivotal in achieving meaningful change. Marques stated, ‘This is a good win for our members who stood strong and made their voices heard and in doing so demonstrated how determined they were to achieve a better pay deal from their employer.’
The pay agreement, which Crane Building Services & Utilities is set to implement, promises not only an immediate enhancement in wages but also includes a provision for a bonus. This bonus is contingent on meeting performance targets set for the year 2024, providing an additional incentive for the workforce. The pay increase is to be backdated to January 2024, ensuring that employees benefit retroactively from the enhanced terms.
Crane Building Services & Utilities, a division under the larger Process Flow Technologies group belonging to the US-based Crane Co., recognised the unified demands of the workforce. The strike and subsequent negotiations have spotlighted the critical importance of dialogue and compromise in resolving labour disputes, while also reflecting the broader dynamics of employment negotiations within the sector.
The success of the GMB union members at Crane BSU underscores the potential of collective bargaining in securing improved employment terms.
