Strike threatens booze shortage in Australia

Bars, pubs and clubs in New South Wales, Australia, could be facing a shortage of booze as the country’s largest alcohol distributor threatens to strike.

Bars in New South Wales face being left short of brands including Bacardi as Australia’s largest distributor threatens to strike

According to the Daily Telegraph, drivers at trucking company BevChain will be voting on industrial action today as negotiations over a new enterprise agreement fall flat.

While the company – a joint venture between transport giant Linfox and brewer Lion Nathan – predominantly distributes beer brands, it also handles spirits brands including Bacardi and some wine brands.

Drivers who are members of the Transport Workers Union (TWU) have been in talks with management about safety concerns and pay rises.

Discussions taking place today could lead to an indefinite strike or an agreement to refuse to work overtime if concerns are not met.

“Members have been seeking an agreement that recognises this, with secure jobs, efficient operations and a partnership for lifting standards right across Australia’s most dangerous industry,” Wayne Forno, TWU secretary for New South Wales, told the Daily Telegraph.

“Without our members hard work, the trucks and the stock don’t move. They won’t move.”