Strike preserves bonus payments

Strike action by workers at manufacturer Link 51 Pallet Racking Systems in Telford has resulted in a new deal on pay and bonuses.

More than 100 members of manufacturing union Amicus went on strike for two days following a ballot for industrial action over a 2.5% pay offer last month. Employees had also been told that they could receive 3% if they gave up their bonus scheme.

In addition to all-out strikes on 5 and 12 May, an overtime ban was put into operation from the start of this month. Further industrial action had been planned for the last two Fridays in May, until management came up with an improved offer.

The settlement – which has now been approved by Amicus members in another ballot – will see all staff receive a 3% pay increase, backdated to October 2005. Another pay review will take place this October, but the bonus scheme will definitely be retained at least until the end of the year.