Stagecoach has offered an inflation-busting pay rise to north-east bus drivers following complaints about low wages.
The company has agreed to boost their workers’ pay by 10% over the next 18 months amidst reports of drivers leaving the industry to find better paid jobs.
Around 1,000 Stagecoach workers across Scotland went up in arms last year to demand a “significant shift” in the company’s pay offer.
Workers in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire were able to settle the pay claim without threatening industrial action.
Unite Scotland has now confirmed around 270 Stagecoach Bluebird drivers in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire will benefit from the new pay deal.
Sharon Graham, Unite general secretary, said: “This 10% wage deal for our Stagecoach Bluebird drivers in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire is an excellent result for Unite’s members and a testament to the work of our reps.
“We are determined to improve the jobs, pay and conditions of our members in the bus industry and this win shows that workers get results when they’re in Unite.”
John Clark, Unite industrial officer, added: “We are delighted to secure this inflation-busting pay deal for our drivers at Bluebird Stagecoach in the north-east.
“A massive thank you must go to the Unite shop stewards who were doggedly determined to get the best possible deal for our members.”
The pay rise is expected to come into force with immediate effect and last for a total of 18 months until October next year.
A Stagecoach Bluebird spokeswoman said the company is delighted to offer better wages to their workers, who do a fantastic job in delivering vital transport connections for local people.
She added: “We are committed to working with our trade unions to reach agreements that are in the collective best interests of our people, our customers, the bus network, and the long-term future of the company that supports the jobs of our employees.”