Workers at Drinks Inc to vote on strike action over pay
Unite the Union will open a strike ballot next week for members working at Northern Ireland distributor Drinks Inc over a pay dispute.
Drinks Inc, which is based in Belfast and was acquired by Musgrave Distribution in 2019, carries more than 1,000 spirits, wines, beers and soft drinks.
Unite will open the ballot on Tuesday 17 March, which will remain open until Tuesday 31 March. If strike action is favoured, this could take place by mid-April.
The pay dispute stems from the interpretation of a three-year pay deal, which included an inflation escalator clause for the third year (2026).
Unite said the cumulative inflation has risen above the threshold, so the pay deal for year three should be looked at again.
Sharon Graham, Unite general secretary, said: “The refusal of Drinks Inc to fulfil its commitment under the pay deal is completely unacceptable. This is a company that can clearly pay our members fairly but is choosing not to, in order to boost its own profits.”
Unite said approximately 50 workers make more than 1,000 deliveries of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages a week to bars, off-licences, and pubs across Northern Ireland.
Simon Hall, Unite regional officer, added: “If the workers go to the gates the impact will be devastating. There will be an immediate halt to deliveries of all drinks by the company to pubs, restaurants and off-licenses across Northern Ireland.
“Drinks Inc needs to recognise the strength of feeling among workers. Management must return to negotiations and deliver an inflation-proof pay increase. If they don’t, they face the prospect of decisive strike action.”
The Spirits Business has approached Drinks Inc for comment.
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