A total of 225 GMB members working at the BBG site in Samlesbury have voted for industrial action, heralding a possible strike. For the first time, members supported full-scale strike action.
“Workers are rightfully angry and if this strike goes this far, Budweiser could face a summer beer drought,” GMB organizer Stephen Boden said in a statement. The BBG site produces a range of beers such as Budweiser, Stella Artois, Becks, Boddingtons and Export Pale Ale.
A BBG spokesperson told CNN in a statement that the company offers a competitive package “in the 90th percentile for total compensation — with benefits such as private medical coverage and bonuses.”
“We have made significant investments in Samlesbury, which has led to further innovation and automation, the development of additional skills, promotions and many new jobs. In recent years we have expanded our workforce by more than 65,” the spokesperson added. .
BBG and GMB have a “positive and long-lasting relationship” and have been negotiating for months, claiming their staff is their “greatest strength,” the spokesman said. “We are hopeful that through continued open dialogue we can still find a mutually acceptable way forward that will avoid industrial action.”
BBG also stated that the company has plans to minimize the impact on customers.
