Bumper 20% pay rise secured for HGV drivers in Scotland over next two years with Elgin-based firm

A pay rise of more than 20% has been secured by a union for drivers of heavy goods vehicles in Scotland.

On Thursday, Unite announced that it had struck a deal with Elgin-based McPherson Limited which will see HGV drivers employed by the firm see their wages rise by “at least” £2,200 this year.

The logistics company, which transports goods across Scotland, agreed for around 300 drivers to receive a 9.4% increase on basic pay achieved for this year.

They will see receive a further rise on top of that for 2023, meaning they will see their pay increase by 20.35% cumulatively over the next two years.

The union said that it had also secured “significant improvements” to a number of working benefits such as overtime rates.

The rates will rise by 15.5% this year and by 12.4% next year.

New vehicles used for distance work will also be installed with microwaves and fridges, the union said.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said described it was a “great deal” secured for members.

“Our members at McPherson’s have secured a really significant increase not only to their basic pay but across all rates including overtime,” said Graham.

“It’s another great deal won by Unite and demonstrates once again that in this living costs crisis, Unite delivers better jobs, pay and conditions for our members.”

Unite industrial officer Marc Jackson said the deal provides a “springboard” for the future.

“Unite is delighted to secure such a great deal across the board for our members at McPherson’s,” he said.

“We have also doubled our shop stewards who have done a great job negotiating with the company.

“The deal provides a fantastic springboard for the future, and it will help retain and attract people to the industry.”