Inver House staff secure union deal
Airdrie-based Inver House Distillers has agreed to introduce collective bargaining units for parts of its production team.
The Scottish spirits producer will voluntarily formalise its existing framework for collective bargaining units for parts of its production team, following talks with GMB Scotland. This will allow specific groups of employees to be collectively represented by the union in negotiations.
The new measures apply to warehouse operator, distillery operator and relief security roles at the company’s headquarters in Airdrie, as well as at two of its distilleries where union membership is most prevalent.
Staff at Inver House have been embroiled in a pay dispute with the company following strike action in April and the rejection of a 3% pay offer from the firm.
GMB Scotland represents 14% of Inver House’s 321-strong team in the UK.
David Hume, GMB Scotland organiser in the whisky industry, said: “A solid framework for formal engagement with trade unions builds stable and cooperative organisations, benefiting both workers and employers.
“We look forward to continuing to work constructively with Inver House Distillers towards common goals and help their expertise and commitment shape the company’s future success.”
Inver House’s distilleries comprise Balblair, Balmenach, Knockdhu, Old Pulteney and Speyburn.
Malcolm Leask, managing director of Inver House Distillers trading as International Beverage, added: “During recent talks, we explored the topic of collective bargaining to decide whether or not it would be right for our business.
“While the system we had in place served our people well for many years, there was a wish to evolve and introduce more formal collective bargaining units among some of our production teams.
“We welcomed their views and made changes that I’m pleased to say were mutually agreeable with our colleagues and union associates.
“This positive and proactive action reinforces our commitment to taking decisions that are in the best interests of our people, as we build our business for the future.”
Related news
Dhavall Gandhi fuses art and rare whisky
