Despite looming strike threats at the Cargill facility in Worksop, Nottinghamshire, manufacturers have assured that there will be no chocolate shortage, especially during the crucial Christmas season. The GMB Union, representing workers at the site, had previously raised concerns about a potential shortage affecting popular products like Ferrero Rocher.
Cameron Mitchell, GMB Organizer, emphasized the significance of the situation: “The spectre of Christmas without this beloved yuletide treat would be devastating. That’s exactly what’s on the cards if company bosses don’t act urgently to avoid strike action. Workers aren’t demanding gold-wrapped payouts, instead, they’re asking for a pay packet that covers the bills.”
Responding to the strike vote and its potential impact, a spokesperson for Cargill clarified the company’s position and readiness to manage the situation: “The GMB union at our Worksop facility in Nottinghamshire has taken a vote to confirm their intent to strike. At this time, however, employees are not on strike–operations continue as usual and employees are on the job. Cargill has contingency plans in place to continue providing chocolate to our customers if a strike does occur. We do not currently have, nor do we anticipate, a chocolate shortage or adverse supply chain impact to any of our customers.”
Regarding the ongoing pay negotiations, the spokesperson added, “Cargill has made a market competitive offer of a 5.5% increase, as well as an £1,400 one-time bonus payment, as we greatly value our employees and the work they do. Twelve of our 34 employees at Worksop belong to the GMB union and we hope we can come to a collaborative agreement.”
This development comes at a time when supply chain issues have been a global concern, particularly affecting popular consumer goods. The assurance from Cargill aims to calm fears about the availability of chocolates during the holiday season, a time of high demand for such treats.
As the situation evolves, both Cargill and the GMB Union are expected to continue their dialogue in hopes of reaching an amicable solution that satisfies both the company’s operational needs and the workers’ demands.
