Union wants “soaring” results recognised in pay awards

A union leader has called for drinks giant Diageo’s “soaring” financial performance to be recognised in workers’ pay awards.

Interim results for the company for the six months to December 31 last year showed operating profits up 28%at £2,065 million and a 14.5% rise in net sales to £6,421 million.

GMB Scotland said pay rises should recognise the “massive contribution” by the workforce to the firm’s continued success.

The union’s membership across Diageo’s Scottish operations are currently undertaking a consultation ahead of collective bargaining for the 2017/18 pay award.

GMB Scotland organiser Louise Gilmour said: “These soaring results show there is momentum everywhere in Diageo’s business but the strong foundations have been built by the skills of Scottish workers producing premium and luxury whisky brands.

“Our members have negotiated responsibly with Diageo on the thorny issue of pension reform, so the least our members will be expecting is a pay award that recognises and rewards the significant contribution they have made to the company’s performance.”