Local HGV drivers to go on strike

Local HGV drivers working for Wynnstay Agricultural Supplies will go on a 24-hour strike on March 2, a union official confirmed this morning.

Drivers for the Llansantffraid-based company and its Carmarthen depot voted in favour of industrial action to oppose changes to their terms and conditions.

The ballot delivered an 82% result in favour of action which will start with the strike on March 2. 

Workers claim that Wynnstay has imposed dramatic changes to its pay structure for HGV drivers, resulting in a drop of earnings up to 25%, but with an increase in contractual hours. 

Jo Goodchild, Unite the union regional officer, confirmed to us this morning that the strike is still going ahead and said: “The changes to our members contracts and the effect on their earnings are completely unacceptable. The actions of Wynnstay have resulted in a lot of anger among the HGV drivers affected and this is reflected in the overwhelming vote by the drivers to take industrial action.

“Our members feel that they have not been listened to and left with no choice but to strike. The company’s actions are misjudged and fail to reflect the dedication and commitment of its loyal workforce. Wynnstay need to take stock and think very carefully upon what its workforce is saying to it. If these changes are not reversed then a sustained period of industrial action lies ahead.”

A statement on behalf of the company published in the Shropshire Star reads: “Wynnstay confirms that it continues in discussions with its drivers, and endeavours to proceed constructively and productively so that an acceptable agreement can be reached.”