An international aerospace manufacturer is facing its sixth week of industrial action at its UK factory amid an ongoing pay dispute with employees.
Nicholson’s Sealing Technologies, which makes rotary and fixed wing platforms for commercial and military use – among other products for the automotive industry – is being accused of “bullying” its employees by the GMB trade union.
Dozens of workers will again walk out on the factory from 24-25 August after turning down the company’s pay offer of 6.7 per cent and a one-off payment.
Laura Maughan, GMB regional organiser, said: “GMB members at Nicholson’s feel undervalued and underpaid. The company paid out £985,000 in dividends last year, an increase of £140,000 – more than 16 per cent – on the year before.
“However they are refusing to pay these skilled workers a rate suitable for the skill of the work they do. It is time for the company to take a long hard look at themselves and realise the effect they are having on these members’ families.
“Bullying is not acceptable and GMB will not allow members to be treated as if they are characters in a Charles Dickens novel”, the trade unionist continued.
“Nicholson’s bosses need to come back to the table with an improved offer and address these serious issues – and show respect to their employees.”
The ongoing strike action is the first time workers at Nicholson’s Sealing Technologies, in Stanley, Durham, have walked out in the company’s 100 year history.
The manufacturer’s pay increase offer of 6.7 per cent was first presented to employees in May, when GMB members took to the ballot box over industrial action.
Nicholson’s declined to comment in response to the claims made by the union.
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