Tunnock's workers win improved pay deal

Workers at biscuit firm Tunnock's have resolved a pay dispute with the company.

A "significant majority" of Unite members last night accepted a two- year pay offer following two 24 hour walk-outs.

Staff at the family-run company in Uddingston, South Lanarkshire, walked out on 23 and 28 September. They previously rejected a 2 per cent pay offer after a postal ballot of members.

Unite held talks with Tunnock's at the conciliation service Acas, at which the improved pay offer was tabled. Workers agreed to a 2.5 per cent pay increase, backdated to the beginning of July this year, and a further 2.5 per cent from July 2011, Tunnock's said.

The Scottish firm is famous for its teacake, snowball and caramel wafer biscuits.

Managing director Boyd Tunnock said: "The management team and I are pleased that a pay agreement has been reached.

"Our ongoing investment in the business and our staff equips us well for the future.

"From the Caribbean to Kuwait, our products are exported to over 30 countries covering six continents. We look forward to continuing to expand our presence in new markets at home and abroad."

Unite regional organiser Derek Ormston said: "A resolution has been reached and all industrial action is cancelled.

"We are pleased to have reached a resolution and with the solidarity of our members in achieving this improved pay deal."

Tunnock's recently celebrated its 120th anniversary.