The Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers (Usdaw) has initiated a strike ballot for members at KP Snacks’ Ashby-de-la-Zouch site in Leicestershire, amidst ongoing disputes over pay.
The decision to open a formal strike ballot comes after recent consultations indicated significant dissatisfaction among the workforce. This process will conclude on 25 November, marking a crucial point in the 2024/25 pay negotiations which, so far, have not produced a satisfactory resolution.
According to Usdaw, 87.5% of members recently rejected KP Snacks’ offer of a 6.5% pay increase. This offer, according to Ed Leach, Usdaw’s area organiser, does not sufficiently address the gap that is closing between the National Living Wage and the consolidated rates of pay at the facility. Leach expressed regret over the company’s steadfast refusal to enhance its offer, urging them to reconsider to prevent business disruptions, particularly as the busy pre-Christmas period approaches.
KP Snacks has defended its stance, claiming that the proposed pay rise is competitive. In a statement to Grocery Gazette, a spokesperson highlighted that the 6.5% offer is nearly four times the current inflation rate of 1.7%, and when combined with the previous year’s increase, it totals a 15% rise over two years. This period also saw the company’s profits soar to £93.7 million in 2023, despite previous challenges including a cyber-attack. KP Snacks’ notable brands include Mccoy’s, Terrell’s, KP Nuts, and Popchips.
The unfolding situation at KP Snacks highlights the ongoing tensions between employee demands and company valuations, as both parties navigate towards a resolution in challenging economic conditions.
