The Bru will get through

Scottish Grocer reassures retailers that Irn Bru deliveries can still be made despite media reports on strike action

Four bottles with Irn Bru Xtra and Irn Bru line up on a white background.
AG Barr has confirmed that despite strike action, retailers will still be able to get their Bru orders in.

MEDIA outlets have been reporting of planned strike action at AG Barr’s production and distribution centre in Cumbernauld which kicked off today.

Nine 24 hours walkouts have been planned as part of the action from HGV drivers who are part of the Unite union walking out on the business after refusing to accept a 5% pay deal.

However, it has been noted that only 11 drivers have walked out from the firm as part of the action with a spokesperson from AG Barr confirming that the action will not disrupt deliveries and contingency plans have been put in place to help maintain normal levels of service.

The spokesperson said: “The strike is not expected to have any material impact on service.”

This is sure to be some welcome new to retailers across the country should there have been any fear on dwindling stocks, especially during the final days of the Scottish summer sun.

Not only this, but strikes are set to last into October as well bringing further questions of availability for the lead into the Golden Quarter trading period as well.

But AG Barr maintains it believes it has made a fair offer for its drivers with the spokesperson going on to say:

“We’re disappointed in the decision by 11 of our Scottish based HGV1 drivers, represented by Unite the union, to take industrial action.

“We made a pay offer that we believe is fair and competitive – in line with what has been agreed with our other employees.

“We believe we have a responsibility to be fair to everyone.

“We have contingency plans in place to maintain customer service and we will continue to work with Unite representatives and Acas to find a positive and constructive resolution.”

 

Have you had any concern on stock from media reporting on this issue? If so, let Scottish Grocer know and contact us below:

Callum McDade
callum.mcdade@peeblesmedia.com 
0141 567 6032