Staff at the high-tech defence manufacturer Qioptiq in St Asaph, Wales, are celebrating an eight per cent pay increase following the threat of industrial action. The breakthrough came after workers voted to strike earlier in June, rejecting the company's initial offer of just three per cent.
Details of the New Deal
Under the newly accepted agreement, workers will receive a 3.5 per cent increase in year one, alongside a 1.5 per cent bonus in December and additional annual leave. In year two, a further 4.5 per cent increase will be applied. The deal was secured after Unite and GMB union members prepared for strike action, which has now been cancelled.
Union Response
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: "This is a great win for our members at Qioptiq. It shows the power of the union and what happens when workers are willing to take strike action to further their goals against an employer who'd previously made a poor pay offer." Unite regional officer Jono Davies added: "Unite is the winning union in defence manufacturing and this is a good deal for our members. They were backed all the way in this dispute by Unite. This is a rallying cry to workers across the industry in Wales - Unite puts money in your pocket."
Company Background
Qioptiq, based in Saint Asaph, produces high-tech optics for the defence industry, including avionics, night vision equipment, and scopes. The company's initial offer of three per cent was deemed insufficient by workers, leading to the strike vote that ultimately prompted improved negotiations.
