Several whiskies could be in short supply over Christmas if a proposed walkout at Chivas Brothers goes ahead.
Members of the Unite union are being balloted on strike action across the company’s Kilmalid, Dalmuir, Beith, Strathclyde Grain and Strathisla distilleries, and Dumbuck warehouse facility, in a row over pay.
Chivas produces a number of whiskies including Chivas Regal, Aberlour, Ballantine’s, Royal Salute and The Glenlivet. Unite has warned that if the membership back strike action, this will “hit hard” supplies of the drinks giant’s premier brands over the festive season.
The company employs around 1,500 workers in Scotland, with Unite the main union, representing hundreds of staff.
Ninety-seven per cent of Unite members have already rejected a 6.4% wage increase and on 17 October the union warned it would have “no option” but to ballot members unless progress was made in pay negotiations.
The ballot closes on 20 November.
Referring to the company’s 2022 financial results, Andrew Brown, Unite industrial officer, said: “Unite’s hundreds of members at Chivas Brothers deserve to taste some of the £168.5m profit. The company also recently announced a 10-year sales high. Yet, there is a pay offer on the table which represents a real terms pay cut, which is totally unacceptable.
“Chivas Brothers should be in no doubt that if our members support strike action it will leave management with a terrible festive hangover entirely of their own-making.”
In response, a Chivas spokesperson commented: “We’re disappointed that employees covered by a bargaining agreement are being balloted for potential industrial action. However, we maintain our position and firm belief that our offer strikes the right balance between ensuring our salaries remain highly competitive in the context of a normalising business environment, while enabling us to build a successful and sustainable future for Chivas Brothers and its people, for the long term.
“We sincerely hope that any industrial action can be avoided but are confident that we can put in place the necessary measures to minimise the impact of any disruption on our business and our customers around the world.”
