Stockton North MP, Alex Cunningham, is backing local workers in their pay dispute with Quorn Foods.
Quorn, which is based at Belasis, Billingham, has reported a surge in demand for its meat-free products during the past year and has ramped up production to meet this. In a recent interview Quorn’s Manufacturing Director, Mark Taylor, said it was a “credit to our team that we have managed to reach these targets” in the challenging environment of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Now workers – represented by Unite the Union – are seeking a 2.5 per cent pay rise in recognition of this effort. This has so far been refused by the company. More than 60 workers are set to take strike action over the next few weeks, which could result in shortages of the popular meat-free alternatives on supermarket shelves.
Alex said:
“Meat-free alternatives are becoming very popular as more and more people are thinking about the sustainability of their food sources. As a result, Quorn Foods appears to be doing well and it is clear that this is a result of the hard work of their staff.
“I think their employees deserve proper recognition and reward for their efforts. I hope the management will look again at the 2.5 per cent request and come to the table with an improved offer when they meet with the union tomorrow.”
A meeting between Quorn Food and Unite is being held tomorrow. Alex has written to Quorn’s Mark Taylor to add his support to the union’s request.
