News

Carlsberg UK is playing down the headline-grabbing news that its delivery drivers will get a hefty 10% pay rise, pointing out that some of the increase is due to a bonus.

The Transport and General Workers Union has negotiated a new two-year deal for 700 draymen across the UK, which it says equates to a 10% pay rise from March 31.

As part of the deal the draymen will receive just over £24,000 a year with the inclusion of the current bonus of £1,250 into basic pay. Pay will then rise by 0.4% above inflation next year.

A spokesman for Carlsberg says: "While the 10% headline rate is factually correct, the pay rise itself will be just below 4%." The spokesman says that last year's pay increase was "around 3%".       

"We have a positive relationship with the TGWU and are very pleased to have concluded the deal," he adds.

The deal was accepted by a majority of over 60%, according to TGWU regional organiser Joe Clarke.

"It is certainly a good deal although it is fair to say there are comparable terms elsewhere," Clarke tells Motor Transport. 

The deal included an agreement to introduce a new starter rate for the first six months of employment - designed to transfer current temporary and agency staff onto the permanent pay roll. Around 50 people will be affected by the move which guarantees 80% of the full pay, then 100% after six months.

"The inclusion of the new starter rate gives a welcome opportunity for current agency and temporary staff at Carlsberg to gain full-time employment," adds Clarke.