Strike action continues at Coop coffin factory as Unite continues fight for improvements on pay

Unite members working in the Coop’s only coffin manufacturing facility have continued their second week of strike action which commenced on Monday 14 November and continues until 07.54am on Monday 21 November. Unite members are digging in for a fight for a fair wage deal during the cost of living crisis. The refusal of the Coop to make a fair offer risks continuing strike action over the Christmas and New Year period and jeopardies coffin supply disruption during winter.

Willie Thomson Regional Officer said. “Our members remain resolute and determined as they begin a second week of strike action in pursuit of a fair wage deal at a time of the biggest cost of living crisis in decades. With no planned talks with the employer tabled, this dispute will continue risking significant coffin supply disruption at a time when seasonal mortality rates are highest.   

“Unite expected more from an organisation that carries the ‘Coop’ brand name. A brand whose values are linked to Caring for others, Democracy and Equity. They should look again at these principles and ask themselves are they still worthy because my members don’t think they are. It’s time for Coop Funeral care to step up and make a wage offer that does not leave their workers, our members, potentially accessing foodbanks.’

ENDS

Notes to editors:

  • Unite Scotland is the country’s biggest and most diverse Trade Union, with around 150,000 members. The Union is led in Scotland by Pat Rafferty.