Planned strikes at the Mini factory in Cowley (Oxford) have been called off because an improved pay package has been offered to workers, a top workers' union has said.
Around 150 workers were due to strike because of the pay dispute, leading to fears that car production at the facility could grind to a halt.
The workers consist of warehouse staff and shunter drivers, who handle components for the BMW-owned brand. Employed by logistics firm Rudolph and Hellmann Automotive Limited, they were initially preparing to strike on 26 and 28 April and 4, 6, 10, 12, 17 and 19 May.
“Following talks with Rudolph and Hellman, an improved offer was put forward by the company,” said Scott Kemp, Unite regional officer. “Strikes have now been postponed and we will be balloting our members on whether the new deal meets their aspirations.”
Workers can still reject the pay offer, however, meaning strikes could still take place on 10, 12, 17 and 19 May.
Rudolph and Hellman, meanwhile, has suggested that it has put forward an “industry-leading offer” to employees of the facility.
"The company [Mini] is pleased to hear that productive negotiations between Rudolph and Hellmann Automotive Limited and union representatives have resulted in the strikes being postponed and we hope the revised offer will close the issue," a Mini spokesman said.
Employees at the facility were looking for an hourly rate of £12.50 (up from £11.33) and £13.50 (up from £12.27) for night shifts. Drivers had requested a flat rate of £15.50, up from £13.97 for days and £15.07 for nights.
Unite said the strikes could have a “significant impact on production at Mini”. It has also previously disputed suggestions made by Rudolph and Hellmann that the firm was increasing wages by 10%.
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£12.50 should be the minimum wage.
Red Robbo, now there's a blast from the past.
As long as the previous management don't make a return the I'm sure they'll be able to work things out.