Bus maker Alexander Dennis staff in pay strike

Staff atAlexander Dennis are set to strike. Picture: PA

The Unite union said a pay deal offered to workers at the Falkirk-based business is below expectations and a 48-hour strike will take place from 6am today.

The workforce brought the company ‘’back from the brink’’ during a downturn several years ago, with many agreeing to work a three-day week and lobbying the Scottish Parliament for the introduction of a Green Bus Fund, Unite said.

Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL) has offered a pay deal that is 0.5% less than previous annual increases, despite the firm making a 56% rise in pre-tax profit last year, according to the union.

‘No choice’

It is understood the offer is a 3.5% increase instead of the expected 4%.

The strike is by workers at the Alexander Dennis site in Glasgow Road, Falkirk.

When the industrial action was voted for earlier this month, Lyn Turner, an industrial officer with Unite, said: “It’s testimony to the workers’ commitment, modesty and long-term outlook for the well-being of jobs and skills in Falkirk that they are content to settle for the same deal that’s been agreed in recent years.

“Instead, the workers feel they have been left with no choice but to strike and the sense of injustice is reflected in the significant turnout and appetite for strike action.

“It’s not too late for management to do the right thing and reach a deal that is well within their budget.”

The union said 75% of ADL’s vehicle builders voted in favour of going on strike, following an 80% turnout.

The company employs around 2,000 people in the UK, Asia and North America.