Fuel tanker drivers based in Grangemouth to be balloted over strike action amid pay dispute

Grangemouth-based tanker drivers are to be balloted over potential strike action.

Turners (Soham) Limited employees who are members of Unite the Union will be asked if they want to take industrial action amid an ongoing pay dispute.

The logistic drivers work on two contracts which provide fuel services for a number of major aviation companies.

Unite says the workers have been offered a 1% pay rise, which the union describes as “miserly” following the cost of inflation hitting 4.8% in July.

A statement released by Unite on Monday said: “Turners has offered a miserly 1% just as the broader cost of inflation hit 4.8% in July.

“In its latest after-tax profits, Turners recorded £51m for the year ending 2023.

“The union believes fuel supplies to major aviation companies, including Jet 2, easyJet, and Emirates operating at Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Newcastle airports, will be directly impacted if the drivers take industrial action following a successful ballot result.”

The union’s general secretary, Sharon Graham, added: “Unite Turners’ drivers will not accept a miserly pay offer from a very profitable company. We will fully support our members in their fight to secure better jobs, pay, and conditions.”

The ballot for industrial action closes on September 4 and strike action could begin from mid-September.

Unite regional officer, Lyn Turner, said: “The logistic drivers based out of Grangemouth are a key group of workers providing fuel supplies to airlines at Edinburgh, Glasgow and Newcastle airports.

“Turners needs to come to its senses and make a fair pay offer to our members.”

Turners has been contacted for comment.