Evonik workers at a 130-year-old Manchester chemicals site are to strike over pay, Unite, the UK’s leading union, said today (Wednesday 13 October).
Around 25 production and warehouse operatives at Evonik’s Clayton site, which has been a chemical plant since 1892, are taking industrial action after rejecting a 1.5 per cent pay offer.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Evonik Chemicals in Clayton made pre-tax profits of nearly £5.5 million last year, while the global company generated sales of £10.3 billion and had an operating profit of £1.6 billion.
“The company is clearly flush with money but is offering our members what amounts to a real terms pay cut. It is unacceptable. Unite is determined to fight for members’ jobs, pay and conditions. This attack on our members’ living standards will be met with the full force of the union.”
Strike action will take place 18, 19, 23 and 24 October as well as 12, 13 and 14 November.
The Clayton site produces curing agents for epoxy resins, catalysts for polyurethane foam and additives for use in the marine, civil engineering, construction and automotive industries.
The site’s customers include Celotex, Dow and BMW.
Unite regional officer Richard O’Brien said: “Unite urges Evonik to consider the proposals put forward and return with an offer that meets the expectations of the workforce.
“Strike action, and the disruption it will cause the company’s clients, can still be avoided, but only if Evonik’s management table a pay rise that reflects our members’ hard work and loyalty.”
