Oxford MINI is set to face disruption as warehouse workers plan to strike over “inadequate” pay.
Unite the union has warned that production of the MINI at Oxford could be severely disrupted during pay strikes by warehouse workers who handle components for the carmaker.
Almost 150 workers based at the Oxford MINI plant employed by logistics firm Rudolph & Hellmann Automotive Limited, will strike on April 26 and 28 and May 4, 6, 10, 12, 17 and 19.
Warehouse staff and shunter drivers are planning the strikes over an “inadequate” pay offer.
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The union has said the strikes are likely to have a “significant” impact on production at MINI.
Unite also warns that a failure to raise pay to meet rising living costs will add to Rudolph & Hellmann’s retention and recruitment problems.
The company has said it will incraes wages by 10 per cent but the union has disputed this.
The union says that with four per cent rise imposed in 2021 without consultation, the 2022 pay offer is actually six per cent, below the real rate of inflation (RPI), which stands at 8.2 per cent and rising.
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Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Our Rudolph & Hellman members will be receiving Unite’s complete backing during these strikes, which will slow the BMW production line down or stop it completely.
“Unite will not accept a situation whereby BMW’s profits are being made off the backs of low wage workers in the supply chain. Rudolph & Hellman – and BMW - need to start taking account of our members’ rocketing living costs and put forward an offer they can accept.”
The company is offering a rate of £11.33 per hour for day shifts and £12.27 for late shifts for warehouse workers.
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The workers are demanding a day rate of £12.50 and £13.50 for night shifts.
Shunter drivers are being offered £13.97 for days and £15.07 for nights, but want a flat rate of £15.50, which the union has said is nearer industry standards for the role.
Unite regional officer Scott Kemp said: “This is the second time in six months Unite has had to serve notice of strike action in the BMW supply chain due to poor salaries.
“Rudolph & Hellmann’s workers are absolutely critical to the delivery of the MINI’s production, and we expect BMW to work with the company to improve this inadequate pay offer and prevent strike action intensifying.”
Oxford MINI plant said:"We have been informed of the potential disruption and, as discussions are still ongoing, we cannot provide further comment at this time."
Logistics firm Rudolph & Hellmann Automotive Limited said: "Rudolph and Hellman Automotive Limited confirm that we have received the official notification of strike action. We continue with our discussions regarding pay and other terms and conditions with Unite the Union. Whilst these discussions continue, we are unable to make any further comment at this time."
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