Overview: Whisky & Spirits

Christmas strikes loom at whisky giant after GMB Scotland members back action - Tuesday, November 21, 2023

 Workers at whisky giant Chivas Brothers have overwhelmingly backed strike action after pay talks collapsed.

UK Budget Reaction – Spirits Duty Increase - Wednesday, March 15, 2023

GMB Scotland slams “unhelpful measure” as Chancellor hikes spirits duty

Strike threat at whisky giants as workers balloted over shift allowance dispute - Wednesday, February 22, 2023

“This is a dedicated and loyal workforce, and the real prospect of industrial action is not something they are taking lightly, but this ballot is a direct response to management’s chronic intransigence and a clear demonstration of their desire to make work better across Edrington.”

 

 

 

 

Dear GMB member,

 

GMB Scotland in Whisky & Spirits: Campaigning to Suspend Production

 

GMB Scotland, as the voice of Whisky and Spirits workers, has been challenging your employers to understand why they have chosen to stay open during this difficult time.  

 

Yesterday, 25th March, we became aware of a letter from the Scottish Whisky Association to your employer outlining the lobbying they have been doing on their behalf. They have spent the last few days cosying up to the UK and Scottish Government to argue for the Whisky and Spirits sector to stay open for as long as possible. 

 

GMB Scotland and all our members want to see the sector flourish but employers have gone too far by looking to keep you coming to work to pursue profits, producing items that don’t help the fight against COVID-19 and, in some cases, will not see the light of day for at least 10 years. 

 

We have written to your employers and the Scottish Government to tell them again that they need to stop pursuing profits at this time and put you and your families first. 

 

Some employers have done the right thing and already suspended production, yet they might be forced to reopen because of the greed of others who won’t prioritise your health and safety and let you stay at home.

 

I am asking you to stop working instantly if you are at any time asked to do any task that leaves you feeling unsafe. This includes anyone working within 2m of you. GMB Scotland will back all its members when it comes to protecting Health and Safety.  

 

GMB will not let any employer’s reckless pursuit of profit put you at risk. 

 

GMB will work with all employers who choose to do the right thing in suspending production and paying our members 100% of wages. The Whisky and Spirits sector can afford to do the right thing.

 

Keir Greenaway

GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Diageo - Feedback from Recognition Talks

GMB will always campaign in your interests, the recognition agreement is really important to the process of getting you what you want in the workplace.

We would like to thank you again for taking part in the survey and giving your input in to this process, we can't negotiate on your behalf without you telling us what you want.

Please see below the joint feedback from yesterday's meeting and GMB will continue to keep you updated throughout these negotiations.

UPDATE FROM JOINT CONSULTATIVE MEETING – WEDNESDAY 15 JANUARY 2020 A meeting of representatives of the GMB, Unite unions and a small cross section of managers from sites across Scotland has taken place. At the session, the company shared a business update and the outputs of their recent employee survey. Both union groups also shared feedback from the member surveys they had undertaken. All this background will help inform the collective agreement talks going forward. Initial engagement also took place on possible areas to focus on in the new collective agreement. Discussions throughout the day were productive and  positive. All parties agreed to reflect further and another meeting to continue talks is scheduled for 20 February.

If you have any questions please get in touch with your reps or contact:

keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk /0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); or john.mccartney@gmb.org.uk /01463 233088 (Inverness).

 

Keir Greenaway                                                          John McCartney

GMB Scotland Organiser                                          GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member,

GMB Scotland Warns UK Government On Whisky Tariffs

Today the Scotch Whisky Association has been warning about the damaging impact of further US tariffs on the whisky and spirits sector in Scotland.  These are important warnings which follow those made by GMB Scotland for three years now. 

We urgently need the UK Government to wake up to the risk to jobs from tariffs and other trading barriers after Brexit.

That's why GMB Scotland are again demanding answers from the Secretary of State for Scotland on what action his government intend to take to dissuade the US from imposing further unfair tariffs on Scotch whisky and recognise the importance of your industry to our economy. You can read GMB's letter to the UK Government here:

https://tinyurl.com/u4lduvd

If you have any questions or want to get in touch with GMB, please email gmbscotcampaigns@gmb.org.uk

Louise Gilmour
GMB Scotland Senior Organiser

Dear GMB member

GMB Scotland in Whisky and Spirits - Campaigning to defend your livelihoods 

GMB yesterday (Tuesday 22 October) met with the Scottish Whisky Association (SWA) and Ian Murray MP (Labour MP for Edinburgh South and Vice-Chair of the Scotch Whisky All-Party Parliamentary Group).

Against the backdrop of a trade tariff war with the United States and on-going Brexit chaos, which is estimated to have cost the Scottish economy £3 billion, it was another opportunity for us to keep up the pressure for the defence of your livelihoods.

Make no mistake about it, these are difficult and uncertain times for our economic and employment interests and whisky and white spirits manufacturing is not exempt. The threats to one of Scotland’s economic pillars are clear and present.

GMB was unequivocal in our concerns:

• The 25% trade tariff imposed on Scotch by the Trump administration could impact exports to the USA by as much as a 20% drop;
• The UK Government’s latest Brexit deal still cannot give any guarantees in the long-term about Scotch whisky’s Geographical Indication (GI) status; and
• Scotland’s whisky and white spirits sector will continue to be a UK Government pawn in any future trade negotiations post-Brexit.

But let’s be clear, we anticipated this uncertainty three years ago. It’s why GMB Scotland called for the same no-strings protections handed to the North East of England’s car manufacturing sector in the wake of the EU referendum to be given to whisky and spirits.

Over the same period successive UK Governments have failed to bring forward any meaningful measures that work to help safeguard jobs and production in your industry. Like the rest of the economy, your industry remains a sitting duck.

Whisky and spirits manufacturing in Scotland generates billions of pounds and supports thousands of jobs. The whole ‘whisky tourist trail’ image the industry promotes is just the tip of the iceberg; what the public don’t see is the bigger employment picture – but we do.

There is no such thing as a ‘jobs first Brexit’ and no one will throw the punches for us to defend your jobs. That’s why we will continue to take a no-nonsense approach with employers, industry bodies and politicians as we fight for you.

Keir Greenaway

GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,

 

GMB Scotland in Diageo - Pay Offer Agreed

 

You have voted across Scotland to accept (72%) Diageo's 2 year pay offer.

 

The pay offer that you have accepted sustains your rate of pay as well as reintroducing a bonus. 

 

Although we understand frustrations over not increasing pay above and beyond RPI, with Diageo steadfastly looking to reduce your pay in real terms, this should be seen as a success of your solidarity with each other. 

 

GMB was only able to achieve this outcome through your collective effort in supporting your reps to push Diageo for more; a divided workforce doesn't win anything from its employer.

 

GMB will now focus on the negotiation of the collective agreement and we will spend the time to consult with you about what is important to be included in that.

 

GMB will always campaign in your interests, whether that is to secure an adequate pay rise or to set the terms of the collective agreement.

 

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 0131 322 9270 or email keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk.
 
Keir Greenaway
GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member
 
GMB Scotland in Diageo: Pay Offer Consultative Ballot - Wed 25 Sep to Fri 11 Oct 

Following the conclusion of talks on Tuesday 17 September with your employer, we will now conduct a full consultative ballot of Diageo's new pay offer.

The ballot will run from Wednesday 25 September to Friday 11 October. GMB will recommend that you vote yes to accept the offer https://tinyurl.com/y2mzc4ml as the best achievable through negotiation.
 
Members will be balloted either in the workplace, electronically or by post – a full schedule with be available very shortly for your information.
 
It is vitally important that you take the opportunity to complete your ballot and have your say on this offer concerning the future of your pay.
 
This has been a difficult and drawn-out pay negotiation but we want to reassure you that your GMB reps have done all they possibly can to get the best negotiable offer back for your consultation.
 
You have driven this process from the start in the form of our pay survey, multiple consultative ballots, an industrial action ballot and a constant flow of communication.
 
As ever, the process has contended with rumour and conjecture around different sites but your reps remained resolute. Your support is integral for your reps to be successful in their role.
 
Please look out for details on how you will be able to cast your vote. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 0131 322 9270 or email keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk 
 
Keir Greenaway
GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Diageo - Urgent Strike Update Joint Trade Union Statement

At the last minute Diageo have presented an offer that the negotiating group feels is worthy of your consideration.  The Joint trade unions will be recommending this for acceptance as the best achievable in negotiation.

Strike action is suspended to allow for a consultative ballot on this offer.

The full offer can be seen here.

Keir Greenaway 

GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

Urgent update: Diageo Strike Action Set To Go Ahead

Talks are still on-going but have not made any substantive progress.

Your GMB Scotland Shop Stewards promised they would do everything possible to try and get a deal and they will.

As it stands though strike action will commence as planned at 22.00 hours.

Keir Greenaway
GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Diageo - Important Pay Talks Update

Talks remain on-going as of 12.45 hours this afternoon (Tuesday 17 September).

However, we understand Diageo is now briefing staff and media that unions have rejected a 3.2% offer. Let us be clear that this is a lie.

Not only is this undermining attempts for meaningful negotiation while we stand on the brink of strike action this evening, it smacks of total desperation and incompetence on the part of Diageo.

As a credible union, we cannot leave this unchallenged. We can tell you that Diageo has raised its offer, but to just 2.9%. They need to do better.

Please be assured that despite these extraordinary circumstances, we are doing everything we can to push this employer to a fair and reasonable offer.

We will update you as soon as possible.

GMB Scotland

Dear GMB Member

 

Urgent update: Last ditch talks at 10AM this morning with Diageo

 

Late last night we received a call from your employer requesting your unions to return to talks again this morning (Tuesday 17 September).

 

As a responsible union we will always listen to what your employer has to say but we have been clear that we expect nothing less than an improved offer for consideration.

 

Yesterday’s talks were a charade on the part of Diageo. This morning they have one last chance to do the right thing.

 

With strike action scheduled to start from 10PM this evening, we appreciate that time is of the essence. We will update you throughout the day via SMS and email as quickly as possible.

 

Keir Greenaway

GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

Diageo Joint Trade Union Communication

The JTUs have been and always will be willing to sit with the company to try and get a decent pay deal for our members.

After several meetings and seven hours of talks today with management, no offer was tabled by the company.

The JTUs believe the only option left now is to continue with the industrial action for which you voted.

It is bitterly disappointing the employer refused to meaningfully engage. Instead they chose to act out a worthless charade, claiming they couldn’t afford to meet your aspirations.

This is totally disrespectful to you and your claim for a reasonable and more than affordable pay rise.

Now is the time for everyone to stay strong and stand together.

Diageo JTU Workplace Reps and Officials

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Diageo: Pay talks confirmed – Monday 16 September

Following confirmation with your employer fresh pay talks will take place from 10 AM Monday 16 September at Dundas House, Glasgow.

Your GMB reps on the negotiating committee will also convene prior to talks with your employer at 8AM in our Glasgow office.

GMB is a responsible trade union and we will be negotiating to reach an offer that is worthy of your consultation - but that also means Diageo must approach these talks with a similar mind-set.

Achieving an offer which meets your expectations is very much within Diageo’s gift because the financial performance of the company simply does not lie. We all know the numbers and it is more than reasonable for your union to expect that a rising tide lifts all boats.

We have been through a lot over the last six months, from the formulation of our pay claim, multiple consultative ballots and an industrial action ballot which has brought us to the brink of strike action.

You can be assured that we will be doing everything we possibly can to get your employer to a mutually agreeable position so that we can avoid the prospect of a strike from Tuesday evening.

As ever we will update you on developments and any outcomes as soon as we possibly can. Please check in on your text messages and emails throughout the day on Monday.

Keir Greenaway

GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Diageo: Diageo agree to 11^th hour talks

Following conversations with Diageo Employee Relations Director Kenny Irwin this morning (Thursday 12 September) I can confirm that your employer has agreed to return to talks with GMB and our sister trade union.

Talks are set for this Monday 16 September. Full details of times and venue will be confirmed shortly.

With strike action due to start at 22.00 hours on Tuesday, these talks are very much at the 11^th hour but as a responsible trade union we will approach them with a positive outlook.

Since serving strike notice we have encouraged the employer to bring forward a new offer that meet’s your aspirations. We are pleased that they have engaged positively today but there is still work to be done if we are to reach a position that avoids strike action.

As ever, we will update members as soon as possible on developments and outcomes so please check your mobile and email. In the meantime, if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me on 0131 322 9270 or email keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk

Keir Greenaway

GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Diageo: It’s good to talk - but is Diageo listening? 

Following our comprehensive ballot result, and as a responsible trade union, GMB has made repeated attempts to bring your employer back to talks. It’s an invitation your employer has, so far, ignored. 

Today (Friday 6 September) I have written formally to Diageo’s Supply Director Ewan Andrew seeking an explanation as to why, and particularly against the backdrop of Diageo’s public comments (see letter attached). 

With every 0.1% of pay costing the employer just £95,000, we know they can more than afford to offer the type of pay rise you are seeking. The profits and fat cat pay levels speak for themselves - but they can't achieve those eye-watering numbers without you. 

That’s why we are saying to Diageo: It’s good to talk. But is the employer listening? 

We’ll soon find out…

Remember! Ten days of rolling strike action across all Diageo Scottish operations will start on Tuesday 17 September. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact your workplace rep or email me at keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk 

Keir Greenaway 

GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member

GMB Scotland in Diageo: Industrial Action Ballot Result – 80.5% YES for strike action

Our industrial action ballot over your pay offer (2.8 per cent increase) for 2019 has now closed.  Thank you to all our members who voted.

You were asked: Are you prepared to take part in strike action? The result is as follows: 

YES                 80.5 per cent

NO                  19.5 per cent

TURNOUT      55.6 per cent

The full report is attached for your information. We have now notified of Diageo of our clear legal mandate in support of strike action and urged them to return to fresh pay negotiations.

This should be the wakeup call Diageo need to take your wage claim seriously. Against the backdrop of record breaking profits, shareholder bonanzas and a 30 per cent pay increase for the Chief Executive, its time you got the respect you deserve from Diageo.

We will update you when we receive a formal response from Diageo and as we set-out the next steps in our campaign.

It’s time Diageo got real on pay. Let’s stick together and fight for a new pay offer that is worthy of your consultation and beats the cost of living.

In the meantime, if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me at keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk or call 0131 322 9270 (office hours).

Keir Greenaway

GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Diageo - Last Chance to Vote! Vote Yes!

The ballot will close on Friday 23 August at noon, make sure you have voted YES.

Your hard work deserves a good pay rise, Diageo can more than afford to pay it and by voting Yes we can get it.

Don't miss your chance to vote, make sure you have sent your ballot back.

If you have any questions please get in touch at keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk or call 0131 322 9270. 

Keir Greenaway
GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Diageo – Industrial Action Ballot: Last Chance to Vote Yes

Most of you will have already returned your ballot but if you haven't make sure you send it back as soon as possible.

Diageo has offered you a 2.8 per cent increase on the basic rate of pay which fails to meet the cost of living. At the same time, Diageo has recently announced that:

• Pre-tax profits are up 13.2 per cent to £4.235 billion; and
• Ivan Menezes pay is up 30 per cent to £11.6 million.

This pay and profit bonanza is not trickling down to workers in the bottling halls and distilleries who are doing so much to help deliver this outstanding performance.

Diageo needs to get real on your pay. That’s why are urging you to Vote Yes for industrial action.

Our ballot closes at Noon on Friday 23 August so don’t delay, vote today.

If you have any questions, or have not yet received a ballot paper, please get in touch with me immediately at keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk or call 0131 322 9270.

Keir Greenaway

GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,
 
GMB Scotland in Diageo - Return Your Ballot - Vote Yes!

Your vote is incredibly important and we urge you to Vote Yes.
 
Only a strong Yes vote will bring Diageo back round the negotiating table with a meaningful offer.
 
Diageo have proven they can afford obscene pay hikes for those at the very top - they can afford a decent pay rise for you who make the profit.
 
With the awards at Leven and the increasing investment in Scotland, you are integral to Diageo’s profit with Scotland being the jewel in the crown, so you shouldn’t be treated like the poor relation when it comes to pay.
 
Please contact us if you haven’t received a ballot yet, we need everyone to vote and return a strong Yes Vote!
 
If you haven’t received your ballot call 0131 322 9270 or reply to this email, letting us your name and correct address.
 
Keir Greenaway
GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Diageo - Equity in Pay? Vote now!

Your ballot papers should have arrived, vote Yes to get the pay rise you deserve!

Diageo last week announced pay awards for the Chief Executive and you may be surprised but they have found the money for his huge pay hike.

Ivan’s pay rise has taken his income from a meagre £8.9 million to £11.6 million which equates to roughly a 30% pay rise.

The extra £2.7 million for 1 member of staff is larger than the cost of the pay rise Diageo have offered everyone in Scotland.

This injustice and inequity in pay can’t continue, one member of staff is not more important to the profitability of Diageo than all of the workers distilling, maturing and bottling Whisky and Spirits in Scotland.

GMB needs you to Vote Yes so that your reps can negotiate a pay offer that you will find acceptable.

If you haven’t received your ballot paper yet, please contact GMB on 0131 322 9270 giving us your full name and correct address or reply to this email.

Keir Greenaway

GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Diageo - Pay Campaign Update

GMB is aware that Diageo have been communicating a number of potential inaccuracies, mainly around our willingness to find an agreement on pay.

Let’s be clear.

The priority of your reps and your union is reaching an agreement with Diageo on a pay offer that you would find acceptable.

You asked for an above inflation pay offer in your initial pay survey.

You told us you would reject any offer that wasn’t significantly above RPI in your first ballot.

And then you rejected Diageo’s 2.5% offer by a 94% majority.

GMB attended the most recent meeting with ACAS looking to get to an acceptable outcome, but Diageo wasted the limited time and did not come with a much improved offer as they had told us they would.

Instead, they offered you another real terms cut to your pay, in spite of their profits soaring beyond £4 billion.

As that meeting ended at the agreed time, it was left with Diageo to arrange a further meeting - they have not yet contacted GMB. 

Today we have chased Diageo to encourage them to arrange a meeting and we hope they take this opportunity seriously.

You have been consistent and clear with your expectations on pay for this year, but Diageo has yet to get real and make you an acceptable offer.

Your new ballot will be posted out on Wednesday 7 August, with the closing date 23 August.

We need a strong YES vote to get Diageo back round the negotiating table with an offer that you will find acceptable and one that reflects the huge profits you make. 

Keir Greenaway
GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,
 
GMB Scotland in Chivas - Holiday Pay Collective Grievance Appeal
 
Our priority is the defence of your interests. 
 
We believe that you haven't been receiving enough holiday pay when you take your annual leave.
 
Your holiday pay should reflect any overtime you have worked within close proximity to your annual leave.
 
GMB raised this through a collective grievance some months ago and we will be meeting with Chivas on August 9th to appeal the initial finding.
 
If we are unsuccessful at the appeal we will be taking this further to make sure that you get the correct pay in future and any back pay you deserve.
 
Only GMB members will be able to be part in any future ACAS or legal proceedings. 
 
Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh).
 
Keir Greenaway
GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Diageo - 2019 Financial Results

Through financial results today, Diageo are celebrating another record year for profits.

Diageo's pre-tax profits have jumped 13.2% to £4.235 billion, which should be great news for all of us.

You need your employer to be successful so that they can reward you properly for your profit creating hard work.

However, Diageo are offering you a real terms pay cut while they give their shareholders a 5% increase on their dividend and aim to give shareholders £4.5 billion over the next 2 financial years.

This is a massive transfer of wealth from those who create the profit in Scotland to institutional investors creaming off the profit in the City of London.

Diageo are happy for you to have less money next year than you had this year, meaning you have less money to spend in the communities where the profits are created at the same time as handing over huge swathes of cash to those riding the gravy train who aren’t responsible for £1 of profit.

GMB believes squeezing its hardworking and profit making staff absolutely stinks when they are willing to chuck money at investors.

You need to vote Yes in your industrial action ballot, so we can redress the balance and that you get an acceptable pay rise

Keir Greenaway
GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member,

GMB Scotland in Diageo - Pay Talks Break Down

Today, your GMB representatives met with Diageo in an attempt to secure a pay offer for 2019 that reflects both the rising cost of living and your role in the continued success of the company.

Despite our expectation that Diageo will tomorrow post profits in excess of £4 billion, their latest offer of 2.8% would see you worse off than you were last year.

We take our responsibility to you as your trade union very seriously and participated in today’s negotiations in the right spirit, seeking agreement on a pay offer that you would find acceptable.

Unfortunately, Diageo did not take the opportunity to offer you a real pay rise, and for now talks at ACAS have broken down.

Your GMB reps don’t think it is fair or credible for a hugely profitable company like Diageo to ask you to swallow cuts to your pay in order to top up their profits, so we will be going ahead with the strike ballot beginning on Monday 29 July.

In summary, the joint trade unions met with the employer at ACAS today (Wednesday 24 July) where there was no progress made, therefore we will continue with our industrial action ballot.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh).

Keir Greenaway

GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Diageo - No Progress at Crucial Talks

Your GMB reps met with Diageo today and the employer was unable to improve their offer whatsoever.

You have flatly rejected the employer’s existing 2.5 per cent offer by a majority of 94 per cent in our consultative ballot.

GMB will now serve industrial action notice to your employer, with your ballot set to run Monday 29 July to Friday 16 August.

Your reps have relayed the strong message you have sent GMB in your pay claim and previous ballots that you want a pay rise significantly above RPI.

Your reps will meet with Diageo on Wednesday at ACAS, GMB continue to look for agreement, however Diageo have given no inclination that at this stage they are willing to put an offer on the table that you would find acceptable.

Diageo will announce eye watering profits on Thursday, an increase on last year, but seem dead set on offering you a lower pay rise.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh).

Keir Greenaway

GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Diageo - Important Update! Crucial Pay Talks Tomorrow

Your GMB reps will meet with Diageo tomorrow (Friday 19 July) in what will be crucial talks concerning your 2019 pay offer.

You have flatly rejected the employer’s existing 2.5 per cent offer by a majority of 94 per cent majority in our consultative ballot.

Your pay claim asked for a rise that was significantly above the rate of inflation and you confirmed this in your first ballot - it is vital that pay beats the cost of living for you and your family.

Next week, Diageo will likely post operating profits either around or over an eye-watering £4 billion, so the prospect of a below inflation offer for you is frankly ridiculous.

Tomorrow, we expect Diageo to return to the table with an offer that meets your expectations and is worthy of your consultation.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh).

Keir Greenaway

GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Diageo Pay Negotiations - Final Offer

GMB met with Diageo today (3 July) as Diageo previously stopped negotiations to see if they could improve their offer.

Diageo have put a final offer on the table that we believe is frankly disrespectful as it is 2.5% and a small increase in product allowance. It has taken Diageo three weeks to be able to bring an extra £85 in product allowance to the table to form part of their final offer.

As we now have a final offer GMB will ballot you between Friday 5 July and Monday 15 July. We know Diageo's final offer falls short of your expectation, that’s why we will ask you to REJECT it.

Diageo is expected to break through the £4 billion profit mark. They say ‘time is money’, well the time it would take Diageo to make up the difference between their ‘final offer’ and an above RPI offer for you would be just two hours out of the whole year.

There is no doubt that Diageo can afford to pay - but they just don't want too. The only way you can change their mind by voting to REJECT their final offer.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh).

Keir Greenaway
GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Whisky and Spirits - Threat of US Trade Tariffs

GMB will always campaign in defence of your interests which is why we have come out today to highlight the risk caused by potential US Trade Tariffs on Scotch Whisky.

The US has threatened to impose tariffs on European Imports which is likely to include Scotch Whisky which could have a massive impact as the US is the world's largest market for Scotch Whisky by value.

If the US is willing to start a trade war with the EU as it has with China, this highlights how little control and power the UK would have on its own when it came to negotiating any future trade deal with the US outside of Europe.

Gary Smith, GMB Scotland Secretary said:

“This is a troubling look into the post- Brexit future and towards future trade negotiations with the U.S.

“If anyone thinks the UK economy isn’t a sitting duck then they are deluded - there will be no special relationships out there.

“It also exposes the fragility of the Scottish economy, where food and drink, and within it whisky and spirits, is the second biggest export sector.

"It reinforces our previous view that for Scotland there is no Brexit deal better than our current deal as members of the European Union."

GMB Scotland will continue to meet with MP's, MSP's and trade bodies to highlight potential risk to Whisky and Spirits throughout this turbulent time, GMB will not let your industry, livelihoods and communities slip off the main political agenda.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh).

Keir Greenaway
GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Edrington - Edrington Financial Results

On June 20 Edrington announced their financial results for 2018/19 which make good reading.

Both revenue and core profit increased from last financial year 2017/18.

It is the hard work that GMB members put in day in and day out that helps drive good financial results at Edrington.

This increase in profit (4%) and revenue (9%) bodes well for Edrington's ability to meet your pay claim when pay negotiations start for your 2020 pay rise.

It has also been raised at some sites that managers are going outside the disciplinary policy and putting notes on members files that have no end date. This has not been agreed with GMB and we are challenging this, if this has happened to you please get in touch with your local rep.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh).

Keir Greenaway

GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB – Scotland’s Campaigning Trade Union, Defending Your Interests

Your GMB Scotland reps will be on-site tomorrow (Thursday 27 June) 11-1pm and 5-6pm in the main Kilmalid canteen, to discuss holiday pay and any other issues at work.

Last week, you may have received a marketing newsletter from Unite pushing services that you can get if you pay their £15.82 a month membership fee.  We’ve asked the employer how this was able to be emailed to every member of staff – but it also made us think. What’s a union for?

The transition of staff throughout the rest of this year from Paisley to Kilmalid is what prompted that email, we know that. Fair enough. But if anyone thinks that a services based approach to trade unionism is a means to improving your pay and future then they are living in the past.

So let’s cut to the chase: If you work are an Operator at Kilmalid then GMB Scotland is the only union that can collectively bargain with your employer over your pay and conditions.

We’re not going to try and market a membership to you on the basis of services you get as standard with any trade union membership.  Welcome as those services are, it’s not how we build and grow a winning union - it won’t put a single penny more in your pocket, let alone defend a single job.

Shortly, we will begin consulting you about how we build on the previous pay deal while securing the future of jobs and production. These are our campaigning priorities in Chivas.

We also need to have one eye on the wider world. One way or another, Brexit is happening bringing change to our whisky and spirits sector; whether it’s through tariff changes to the products you manufacture or trade reform between the UK and other countries. 

Only a campaigning trade union that’s focused on the future can best defend your interests. That’s what you’ll get with GMB Scotland.

As ever, if you have any questions at all, please email me on at keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk or call me or send a text to 07855 017842.

Keir Greenaway

GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member,

GMB Scotland in Diageo - Consultative Ballot Result

GMB will always campaign in the interest of our members and to get you the best pay rise possible.

96% of you agreed that you would reject a pay rise that wasn't significantly above the cost of living (RPI).

By voting so clearly that the position taken in your pay survey is still the case, this gives your GMB rep negotiators a clear mandate for further negotiations.

It also allows us again to tell Diageo that you want a pay rise that improves your quality of life.

With it almost certain Diageo will break the £4 billion profit mark when their financial results are in, you are asking for a pay rise your hard work deserves and Diageo can blatantly afford to pay.

GMB have informed Diageo of your ballot result and we will be meeting with them on the 3rd of July for further talks.

GMB is adamant that you deserve a fair, decent pay offer and that we will not allow pay talks to be dragged out.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh).

Keir Greenaway
GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Diageo - Ballot Reminder One Week To Go! Vote Yes!

GMB Scotland will always campaign to defend your interests and for the pay rise you deserve.

You have until midday on 24 June to complete your consultative ballot - Vote Yes,

send a clear message to Diageo you deserve an above inflation pay rise.

Lots of you will have already completed your ballot in the workplace or at home, the more of you that tell us what you think the stronger the message we send to Diageo.

Remember your pay claim https://tinyurl.com/y2wzmx43 is affordable, achievable and fair. Diageo are in line to make £12 profit every second this year they can afford a pay rise that increases GMB members standard of living.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk/ 0131 322 9270

Keir Greenaway                                                               

GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Chivas - Average Pay Claim and Kilmalid Canteen

GMB Scotland are campaigning to get you the right holiday pay in Chivas.

GMB believe you have not been paid the correct amount when you have been on leave, meaning you could be paid more in the future and some of you will be owed back pay.

We have lodged an appeal to the collective grievance but we are also taking details of members who want to put in their claim.

Come and see us between 11-1pm & 6-7pm in the canteen to get your claim in for the correct holiday pay, make sure you tell your colleagues.

GMB is the only trade union that can negotiate for Operators at Kilmalid.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh).

Keir Greenaway
GMB Scotland Organiser

GMB Scotland Is Defending The Interests Of Whisky And Spirits Workers 

We are the biggest trade union in Scotland’s whisky and spirits sector – and with good reason.

Over the last three years we have protected pension entitlements, negotiated pay deals that meet or beat the cost of living and grown our trade union membership by taking a no-nonsense approach with employers and politicians over the future of the sector.
We will always be honest with you. We won’t march you up to the top of hill on pay and conditions only to climb back down when it comes to the crunch. We won’t try and lure workers to join our union on the back of offers and services that already come as standard.

We provide leadership. We won’t wash our hands on the decisions affecting your livelihoods. Every ballot we undertake will come with a recommendation to accept or reject; failing to provide a recommendation is an abdication of responsibility and a waste of your money.

Our pledge to you is simple:

• We campaign to defend your interests.
• We negotiate more pay, equality and security in your workplace.
• We take a no-nonsense approach with employers and politicians.
• We grow our trade union to be better and stronger.

The next five years will pose big challenges for the whisky and spirits sector. Brexit will mean change to the UK’s trading arrangements with Europe and the rest of the world, and the prospect of new trade deals with countries like the United States will mean further reforms.

Like it or not this is coming down the line and through our campaigns and research, we have put our union ahead of the curve by asking the difficult questions of decision-makers and putting us in the strongest possible position to defend your livelihoods.

GMB won’t promise you anything other than hard work on your behalf and because we are doing this consistently, we are the fastest growing trade union in Scotland today.

We don’t do gimmicks or marketing; we do our very best to be a proper trade union.

One sector, one union - GMB Scotland is defending the interests of whisky and spirits workers.

Gary Smith                                   Louise Gilmour                                           Keir Greenaway
GMB Scotland Secretary          GMB Scotland Senior Organiser          GMB Scotland Organiser

P.S. Do you know a colleague that's not a member of GMB Scotland? They can join online at www.gmb.org.uk/join or call 0141 332 8641 (Quote: ‘Whisky & Spirits’).

Dear GMB member

GMB Scotland in Diageo - 2019 Pay Talks and Consultative Ballot

Your GMB reps attended pay talks on Tuesday 28 and Wednesday 29 May, which were unfortunately cut short because of the distance between Diageo and your expectations for the 2019 offer.

We all know that Diageo is one of the most profitable companies in the world and that your actions over the last year have driven efficiencies to make them even more profitable.

So let’s be clear about what we dealing with. Later this year Diageo’s profits are likely to break through the £4,000,000,000 (Billion) mark.  So your pay claim  asking for a substantial increase above the cost of living is very fair and very affordable for Diageo.

The fact that Diageo were unable to table an offer to meet your expectations is neither acceptable nor credible to GMB – and we need to send a firm message telling them so.

That’s why GMB will launch a consultative ballot from this Monday 3 June, running until Monday 24 June. You will be asked:

Do you reject a pay offer that is not significantly above the cost of living (RPI)?

GMB will strongly recommend that you vote YES.  The prospect of Diageo making a profit of £4 billion and the wealth not being shared fairly with you is a total nonsense.

You deserve it and Diageo can afford it. Vote YES. 

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to join Scotland’s union for whisky and spirits workers. They can do so at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me via email at keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk or call 0131 322 9270 during office hours (Monday to Friday).

Keir Greenaway                               

GMB Scotland Organiser               

Dear GMB Member,

GMB Scotland in Diageo - Pay talks 2019

GMB will always campaign in defence of your interests and to improve your Pay & Conditions.

Today Pay Negotiations begin with Diageo and they are set to last for 3 days until Thursday 30 May.

Your 2019 Pay Claim is here: https://tinyurl.com/y2wzmx43, your demand from your employer is a 5% pay rise.
You filled in your survey by the hundreds and were very clear you all wanted an above RPI increase, RPI for April 2019 is 3%.

RPI is a measure of inflation that calculates how much the cost of living has increased, April's RPI figure of 3% meaning that since April 2018 the cost of items such as food and household bills have increased by an average 3%.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                                                Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                                               GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Whisky and Spirits

GMB will always campaign in defence of its members interests.

GMB met with the Scotch Whisky Association following the release of its report ( https://www.scotch-whisky.org.uk/media/1591/final-2018-economic-impact-report.pdf ) Thursday 2 May.

At this meeting we discussed the issues facing the industry around Brexit and the success of the industry.

It is clear from the report that Whisky and Spirits is a major contributor to the UK economy and is in a strong position to cope with whatever happens through Brexit.

However, the strong growth of the industry isn't beyond being impacted and we know the less clear planning around the next steps of Brexit the bigger impact on the industry.

There are still major concerns about what will happen at the borders if and when Brexit is finally negotiated as well as the potential impacts around Geographical Indicators which preserve the stamp of quality Scottish Whisky has in the European Union.

This editorial ( https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-business-48118679 ) outlines that the USA is keen to undermine the ageing requirements of Whisky and would look to do this through any Trade Agreement with the UK.

GMB Scotland will continue to lobby to make sure the quality marks of Whisky is maintained, which maintains the industry which is so valuable to Scotland.

We also need to make sure that the value of Whisky and Spirits to the economy is felt in the communities that distil, mature and bottle it, the key to this is making sure those in the industry are well paid so that they can spend their wages in those communities.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb 

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                      Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                      GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,
 
GMB Scotland in Chivas - Average Holiday Pay
 
After receiving Chivas outcome to the initial Collective Grievance, GMB has taken its time to understand the outcome and seek further advice.
 
GMB have decided after this discussion to appeal the outcome of the Collective Grievance as we do not feel the outcome letter takes in to account the changes to the law and gives you true average wage when on leave.
 
GMB has informed Chivas about the appeal and await dates for that hearing.
 
GMB will always campaign in defence of its members interests.
 
Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join 
 
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness). 

Keir Greenaway                                           Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                           GMB Scotland Organiser 

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Diageo - 2019 Pay Negotiations

You filled in your pay survey in your hundreds to give us a clear indication what you wanted in your pay claim:  https://tinyurl.com/y2wzmx43.

Your claim is for a 5% increase. 

GMB Scotland will always campaign to get you the biggest increase in pay and Diageo has been incredibly successful enabling them to match your ambition.

Diageo have given us the dates 28-30 May to start pay negotiations. 

You were adamant that you wanted pay negotiations to conclude more quickly in 2019, we strongly expressed this to Diageo and they have listened by putting in a block of days for negotiations.

GMB will as always keep you updated with how pay talks are progressing, you are the union and you will be the first to know what is happening.

Campaigning together we can get you the pay rise you deserve.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb 

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join 

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness). 

Keir Greenaway                                          Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                         GMB Scotland Organiser 

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Diageo - 2019/20 Pay Claim

You filled the survey in by your hundreds this year, which is really important as it gives us a clear indication of what you want for your 2019/20 Pay Claim. 

Your 2019/20 Pay Claim is here: https://tinyurl.com/y2wzmx43

Your work for Diageo has made it in to one of the world’s most successful companies and therefore we think your claim for 5% pay rise is legitimate and reflects the value you bring to Diageo.

Mid-year results for Diageo, suggest they will break the £4 billion mark for profits in 2019. It is only right, fair and equitable that you see a pay rise that truly reflects the success that Diageo is having from your hard work.

GMB will send your pay claim to Diageo later today and will inform you when pay negotiations have been arranged.

Diageo are aware of your desire for pay negotiations to be concluded as quickly as possible, so that your pay award is set for your anniversary date of 1 July 2019.

Collectively we can achieve the pay rise you deserve in 2019.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates, please reply to this email with any changes you need to make.

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join 

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk /

0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness). 

Keir Greenaway                                          Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                         GMB Scotland Organiser 

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Diageo - Scat Ballot Result and Pay 2019/20

The ballot of GMB members affected by the Scat proposal has now been completed and the GMB vote was 91% to accept the proposal. We have informed Diageo of the result.

Scat members will shortly receive communication from Diageo confirming the ballot result and the next steps.

If you have any further questions about how the Scat proposal will affect you please get in touch.

Your Pay Survey for 2019/20 has now been completed, GMB will spend the next few days collating the survey results and finalising the claim with your reps.

As soon as your pay claim is ready we will send you a copy and inform Diageo.

You telling us what you want for a pay rise in 2019/20 is incredibly important as it sets the trajectory for the pay negotiations and what GMB will endeavour to achieve within the negotiations.

You filled in the pay survey in large numbers which gives your GMB reps negotiating on your behalf a strong mandate for what you want them to achieve and what stance we will take on any offer 

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb 

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join 

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness). 

Keir Greenaway                                          Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                        GMB Scotland Organiser 

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Chivas - Kilmalid site visits

GMB is the biggest union across Whisky & Spirits and our main priority is always to campaign to improve your pay and conditions.

GMB will be on site in the main canteen every Thursday between 11am-1pm and 6-7pm.

Come to speak to us about any issues you may have or if you are interested in becoming more active within GMB.

We are hoping to have feedback on your collective grievance around holiday/overtime very shortly.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh).

Keir Greenaway
GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member,

GMB Scotland in Diageo - 2019/20 Pay Survey REMINDER

If you have not yet completed a pay survey, please find the electronic survey to complete here: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/GMB_Scotland_Diageo_Pay_2019_20

Please note duplicate surveys will not be counted. The survey will close Friday 19 April.

GMB is starting the pay survey earlier this year, as it is our aspiration to get the pay talks concluded over a shorter time rather than having it dragged out for months.

Filling in your pay survey is incredibly important so that when we present the pay claim to Diageo it accurately reflects what you want.

GMB needs to know what you want so your reps can fight for it in the negotiations and be clear with Diageo what is acceptable or not.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                               Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                              GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Chivas - Average Holiday Pay Grievance

GMB submitted a collective grievance in December as we believe you are not receiving the correct level of pay when you take annual leave.

You should be getting an average of your overtime when you take leave so that you are no worse off for taking leave than if you were working.

For example, if you worked every Saturday every week as overtime, when you take a week’s annual leave it should include the overtime earned on the Saturday.  This means you would receive the same amount money on leave as you would have working.

Employers who have recognised and resolved make a retrospective calculation based on last twelve weeks and give you an average pay for every day you take off on leave. 

GMB has asked that this gets resolved through the grievance procedure and that back pay for the last two years is paid to reflect what we think is the correct way payment and value of your holiday pay.

Your representatives met with Chivas on Monday 11 March to discuss your collective grievance and we expect to receive an answer from the employer before the end of March. As soon as we have a formal response, we will send a copy to you and update on our next steps.

GMB Organisers will be at the Kilmalid canteen on Thursday 14 and Monday 18 March if you want to discuss this or any other issue with them. If you don't work at Kilmalid and would like a meeting arranged for your site, please reply to this email or talk to your local GMB rep.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb . If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                          Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                          GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Diageo - SCAT Proposal

GMB Reps have met with Diageo to discuss a proposal for SCAT members.

SCAT members should know who they are and this is a group of workers on Band 6 who are on performance related pay

Below is the joint statement:

The Company and the Joint Unions met to continue discussions with regards to the Scat Reward Framework. An agreement in principle has been reached on the final proposal made by the company and the focus now will be preparing engagement and individual communication material. The plan will be to conclude this process over the next 4 – 6 weeks and is being worked through with your local HRBP – the plan will be communicated locally once agreed. Once communications are concluded the Unions intention will be to run a ballot. Implementation date (assuming acceptance) will be the 1^st July 2019. If you have any questions in the meantime please contact your local HRBP

If you are a SCAT member of staff please reply to this email or let your local rep know, so that we can keep you updated.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb . If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                            Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                             GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member,

GMB Scotland in Chivas - Holiday Pay Grievance

GMB raised the issue of you not receiving holiday pay that reflected the overtime you work.

After you filled in the GMB survey we raised this issue to make sure you were getting the correct pay when on holiday.

GMB believes you should receive holiday pay that reflects the overtime you have worked.

We escalated this issue to a collective grievance to get a resolution for you.

The collective grievance meeting is set to take place on 11 March, we will communicate with you after this meeting any progress we make.

Interested in becoming more active in GMB and helping us stand up for you in the workplace, please get in touch.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                   Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                  GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member,

GMB Scotland in Whisky and Spirits - Brexit Update

Brexit is not getting any clearer at this moment. Every debate in Parliament seems to muddy the waters further. GMB will campaign to defend all its members whatever Brexit brings.

GMB attended a Cross-Party Whisky Group Meeting in Scottish Parliament on 31 January. A presentation made by the Scottish Whisky Association outlined the concerns the industry is facing during Brexit.

The main area of concern highlighted were Geographical Indicators (GIs), these lay out the rules a product needs to meet to be given a certain name like Scottish Whisky. UK GIs are protected through a European scheme at the moment that will need replacing after Brexit.

It is clear industries like Whisky want GI's protected and so do the EU, however there are other politicians that want GI's weakened as it may help to get free trade deals with the US and other countries.

GMB has been made aware by our reps that you are bottling and disgorging at unprecedented rate to get as much product in Europe before Brexit happens.

Please tell your reps or email us if you see an changes in your workplace that could be due to Brexit. GMB will be at the forefront of campaigning to protect your job, wages, terms and conditions whatever happens in Brexit your input in to this is vital.

Your union has not been a passive observer on Brexit. GMB has repeatedly lobbied directly UK and Scottish Government ministers as well as officials in Brussels. We are clear that any threat to your industry is a priority for your union and we will always fight to protect whisky and spirit jobs.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb . If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you are interested in becoming more active as a GMB rep please get in touch.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                           Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser          GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,

 

GMB Scotland in Diageo - Interim Financial Results

 

Diageo released their half year financial results on 31 January 2019. The results demonstrate the hard work of GMB members as Diageo has again been incredibly successful.

 

Half year profit was up 11% to £2.4 Billion, which are phenomenal numbers.

 

It is important that Diageo is successful so that you can be rewarded with a pay rise that is reflective of your hard work.

 

RPI is the measure of inflation that covers all the different items in your life that increase each month and year.

 

GMB believes if you get less than RPI, this is in a real-terms pay cut and you would need to get a pay rise above RPI to see your spending power increase.

 

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb.

 

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

 

If you are interested in becoming more active within the GMB, please get in touch.

 

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                                               Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                                              GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Chivas - Holiday Pay and Product Allowance

GMB have put in a collective grievance on your behalf due to the lack of progress around Holiday Pay.

When you regularly work overtime this should increase the payments you receive when you are on annual leave to reflect the overtime you normally work.

GMB had been hopeful having raised this with Chivas a number of months ago that we would have something in place by now.

Unfortunately, that is not the case and therefore we have lodged the collective grievance so that we can get you the money that some of you will be owed and the correct holiday pay moving forward.

We have also heard your frustrations with your 2018 Total Reward Statement as the product allowance listed is £240. As you are aware GMB has exhausted the grievance procedure and written to the CEO to try to get what we believe you are owed in product allowance.

We have raised with the employer again that we don't think you have received the correct product allowance for 2018 and that by putting £240 on the total reward statement for 2017/18, GMB believes they are inflaming the situation further.

It is important for your union to be successful in fighting for what you want we have as many representatives as possible. If you would be interested in becoming a GMB representative, please get in touch.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                   Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                  GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member

GMB Scotland in Diageo: Consultative Ballot Result – 68.7% Acceptance

Today (Monday 19 November) your GMB Scotland workplace reps counted all ballots cast over your employer’s offer of a 3.2 per cent increase across all pay and allowances.

The result of our consultative ballot is as follows:

• Accept 68.7 per cent
• Reject 31.3 per cent

We have been clear that this offer was the best achievable through joint trade union negotiation without the need for an industrial action ballot and at the very least it will ensure your pay matches the cost of living. 

However, the fact that just under one-third of our members did not feel the offer matched their aspirations must be recognised by Diageo as GMB ramps up our campaigning to defend your interests in 2019.

A new collective agreement needs to be negotiated and delivered, while fresh pay talks will be quickly upon us in the New Year – and the employer will be looking to ditch RPI as the bargaining measure of inflation.

We cannot stand still. We need to keep campaigning and growing if we are to take a stronger position on pay and conditions with your employer. So if any of your colleagues are not a union member, they can join GMB today at www.gmb.org.uk/join

As ever, if you have any questions then please do not hesitate to contact I us at:  keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh) and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Chivas - Workplace meetings

GMB officers will be attending Kilmalid on the 27 and 28 of November. We will be there to discuss with you the latest feedback on Holiday Pay and Product Allowance.

If you do not work at Kilmalid and want a visit arranged for your workplace email us or contact your local rep.

We will be in the canteen at Kilmalid and we are keen to hear from as many of you as possible about what is happening in your workplace.

GMB is here to campaign in your interests. It is through organising collectively and standing up for one another that we will deliver in the workplace..

If you are interested in becoming more active in GMB and helping the GMB win for you and your colleagues please let us know.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                  Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Edrington - New Appointments
 
Edrington have recently appointed 20 new permanent roles. It is great news that Edrington is in the position to create permanent positions.

We understand there has been some frustration about how these roles have been appointed to. GMB has no authority over how Edrington chooses to appoint its staff, we can't tell any employer who they should appoint and we don't wish to.
 
However, we do expect those working for Edrington whether temporary or permanently to be treated with dignity and respect. If you think that the process of the appointments was unfair we can take this up with Edrington.

We have taken the concerns some of you have raised with us and raised them with the employer. GMB have made it clear that those staff who have been on the matrix for a number of years who haven't been appointed to a permanent role will feel disappointed and demoralised. We have also said those who haven't been appointed need to receive support so that they increase their chances of appointment next time.
 
GMB have made Edrington aware that they need to be minded of the morale of those who didn't receive permanent roles this time.

If you are aggrieved by the process, then speak to your GMB reps and we can facilitate a collective grievance for those unhappy with the process.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb.

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact your GMB reps or me at keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh).

Keir Greenaway                                           
GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Diageo – 2018 Pay Offer ACAS Pay Talks and Ballot

GMB met with Diageo at ACAS on Friday 26 October. After a full day of negotiations, Diageo presented GMB with its final offer:

A 3.2 per cent increase to be applied to all rates and allowances, backdated to 1 July 2018 (please see ACAS document here).

GMB sees this as an improvement on the previous offer as there is a greater increase on the base rate and allowances. The movement from 3 per cent to 3.2 per cent matches the current Retail Price Index (RPI) inflation figure (also the same rate for July 2018).

This means the increase doesn't undercut the cost of living for our members. However, Diageo have removed the increase to product allowance.

Diageo's new offer comes with the recommendation from both GMB and Unite. It is the best achievable offer through negotiation without having to proceed to an industrial action ballot.

Although the offer does falls short of our initial pay claim, it retains the link to RPI and matches the cost of living for our members. GMB believes this is something we can carry forward in our future campaigning and into negotiations for the new collective agreement.

GMB will now ballot you in the workplace or by post to find out whether you accept this new offer from the employer. Please check with your rep or on GMB noticeboards for your workplace ballot timetable.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb . Dates, time and locations for local workplace ballots will be available from your GMB reps and on noticeboards.

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at:

keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member,

GMB Scotland in Whisky and Spirits - Meeting with the Scottish Whisky Association

On Tuesday (23 October) GMB met with the Scottish Whisky Association (SWA) as part of your trade unions continued dialogue with stakeholders in the industry to make sure that you are not forgotten in the process of Brexit.

At this meeting GMB again offered to work with SWA to lobby for the protection of Geographical Indicator status of Scottish Whisky. Only last week were there further headlines indicating that Geographical Indicators were one of the main sticking point in negotiations with the EU.

Without the protection afforded by Geographical Indicators it could be possible for poor and cheap imitations of Scottish Whisky to be sold undermining your industry, your jobs and your communities.

GMB knows that the Brexit debate is almost becoming intolerable with what seems like non-stop coverage and incessant re-positioning. However, it is important that this doesn't stop it being a workplace issue, whatever the outcome of Brexit, GMB will be campaigning in defence of your interests in the workplace.

GMB will not let employers take advantage of Brexit in their pursuit of profit over workers.

If you are interested in becoming more active in your GMB to help us all better defend the interests of you and your colleagues please contact us.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb . If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                                       Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                                     GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Diageo - Pay Talks at ACAS

GMB Scotland priority is in defence of your interests. GMB will be meeting with Diageo on Friday 26 October with the meeting facilitated by ACAS.

We hope that we will see real progress in this meeting with ACAS and will be able to bring back to you an offer from Diageo that you find acceptable. We all know that Diageo can afford to give you a pay rise that keeps up with the cost of living and that doesn't make you feel poorer next year.

GMB will send you an update after the meeting on Friday 26 October.

If you have changed address, email, mobile number, job title or workplace please get in touch and let us know your new details or update them yourself at www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                               Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                              GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member,

GMB Scotland in Chivas - Product Allowance and Holiday Pay

Today GMB have written to the CEO Jean-Christophe Coutures to ask for a meeting regarding the product allowance https://tinyurl.com/y8cf73we. GMB alongside Unite have taken your collective grievance as far as it can go.

The feedback we have received from reps is that you are still not happy that you haven't received the full £240 product allowance you were expecting in 2018.

GMB hopes that we can meet with Jean-Christophe Coutures and find a way forward that you find acceptable.

GMB has also raised the issue of Holiday Pay with Chivas as we don't believe you are currently receiving the right amount. GMB believes that Holiday Pay should be representative of what you normally earn, including overtime and other payments.

Chivas are looking in to whether their current Holiday Pay arrangements are compliant or not with most recent case law and will meet with GMB in late November. As soon as we have this meeting with Chivas you will be the first to know.

The strength of GMB is based on its activists in the workplace, if you want to become more active and help your colleagues, please get in touch.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb . If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                                 Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                                GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member

GMB Scotland in Chivas - Collective Agreement Discussions

Today your GMB stewards have shown an act of solidarity to their Unite counterparts from Paisley. Chivas only want to recognise one trade union for operators at Kilmalid even though the smaller workforce of Paisley, where they have recognition with Unite, are slowly moving across.

GMB stewards have done the right thing by committing to support Unite stewards in their endeavour to keep recognition for their Paisley members.

GMB will argue that former Paisley workers keep recognition with Unite even though Kilmalid will remain a GMB site. It is only right we fight for the status quo to remain in place through the closure of Paisley. This will mean those workers moving from Paisley keep exactly the same negotiation and representational rights that they currently enjoy.

No one should try and use the closure to their advantage, not the employer or either trade union. GMB taking this position protects the existing rights of Unite members. GMB wants to carry on the joint work we have successfully undertaken so far by protecting the status quo through the Paisley closure.

If you are interested in getting more involved in the GMB please contact your local GMB rep or reply to this email.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb . If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway
GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member

GMB Scotland in Diageo – 2018 Pay Offer ACAS Talks Confirmed Fri 26 Oct

GMB wrote on your behalf to request Diageo meet with us again to improve their pay offer at ACAS. Read the letter here: https://tinyurl.com/ybzm3ee9

Diageo have agreed to this and we have set Friday 26 October for this meeting.

ACAS will conciliate between both GMB and Diageo. The aim of GMB all the way through the protracted talks and at ACAS is to get to a pay offer that we believe is fair and suitable for recommendation to you.

You made it clear through your conversations with your reps and through our resounding consultative ballot result that the minimum you expect is a pay rise that keeps up with RPI and therefore doesn’t make you poorer.

Diageo can more than afford the pay rise you deserve. We know this and your employer knows this.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb .

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh) and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member,

GMB Scotland in Diageo - We're not going away until we get decent pay

After cancelling pay talks on Thursday, your GMB representatives met to discuss the reaction to this disrespectful behaviour.

The outcome of this meeting is the letter https://tinyurl.com/ybzm3ee9 from your GMB representatives to Diageo management.

Your GMB representatives have given Diageo another chance to meet with us either alone or through ACAS to offer an improved offer. ACAS is an arbitration service that help to mediate between two parties to get to a resolution.

For the avoidance of doubt the pay rise you are asking for is not outlandish, all you want is your pay to keep up with the price of everyday items and bills. Diageo is not an employer who can't afford this, the difference between what you want and what Diageo are offering is change down the back of the sofa for such a massively profitable company.

If Diageo are unprepared to even meet and discuss further, ignoring the massive rejection of the pay offer from GMB members and the offer to find a mutually acceptable solution, then we will begin the process of an industrial action ballot.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb .

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join atwww.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh) and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                                         Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                                        GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member,

GMB Scotland in Diageo - Pay Talks CANCELLED

It is with great dismay that pay talks scheduled for today (Thursday 4 October) have been cancelled by your employer. 

Diageo have informed us that despite their huge profits and your overwhelming rejection of their real terms pay cut offer, they do not want to increase the pay offer to all staff.

The response of the employer is deeply regrettable and your GMB reps will be discussing our next steps today. We will update you as soon as possible on developments.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb .

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh) and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                          Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                         GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Diageo – Pay Negotiations Update!

Yesterday (Wednesday 26 September), GMB alongside Unite met with Diageo to re-start negotiations over your pay.

Everyone involved is looking to conclude negotiations as quickly as possible and although yesterday’s meeting adjourned; we will be reconvening next week on either Wednesday 3 or Thursday 4 October.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb .

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to join Scotland’s campaigning trade union. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you are interested in getting more involved in the GMB in your workplace, talk to your local rep or contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).


Keir Greenaway                  Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser     GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Diageo – New Pay Negotiations Confirmed for Wed 26 Sep!

We have informed your employer of your overwhelming 81% rejection of their pay offer. A fresh pay negotiation meeting has been arranged for tomorrow afternoon (Wednesday 26 September), which your GMB representatives will be attending.

The strength and participation of your rejection has put GMB in a stronger negotiating position as you have made it abundantly clear that you know you deserve more than a below inflation pay offer / real terms pay cut.

Last week at the Diageo AGM, CEO Ivan Menezes managed to get shareholder approval for a monstrous 266% increase to his pay and conditions. Meanwhile, UK inflation also rose to 3.5% (RPI), which means the cost of living for the ordinary worker has gone up again.

GMB will be making it clear to Diageo tomorrow that our members deserve their fair share of the wealth. We expect your employer to come forward with a credible pay offer for your full consultation and not one that treats you with contempt.

As always GMB members will be the first to know what is happening and we will send you an update after the meeting concludes or on Thursday morning.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb .

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to join Scotland’s campaigning trade union. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you are interested in getting more involved in the GMB in your workplace, talk to your local rep or contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).


Keir Greenaway                      Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser         GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Chivas - Product Allowance Grievance Outcome

On Wednesday GMB were made aware that Chivas has decided not to uphold your grievance around product allowance, please see their response here https://tinyurl.com/ybnxsjz8

We find this extremely disappointing, it would cost so little for Chivas to rectify the situation and provide the product allowance you agreed on.

We have now exhausted the grievance procedure. Your GMB reps will be meeting in the next few weeks to discuss where we go next to try and get your correct product allowance. Take time to talk to your GMB rep or to respond to this email in the meantime, to let us know exactly how frustrated you are by Chivas unwillingness to stick to what we all agreed.

If you are interested in becoming more active in GMB, reply to this email or talk to your GMB rep.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb . If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                     Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                    GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Diageo – 2018 Pay Offer Consultative Ballot Result

Our consultative ballot over your 2018 pay offer is now closed and the results have been counted.

We can inform you that GMB members across Diageo have comprehensively rejected the offer by a majority of 81 per cent.

Your GMB officials and reps asked you to reject the below inflation 3 per cent offer and £85 increase to product allowance and you have responded with a clear message that you deserve your fair share of Diageo’s £3.7 billion profits.

We will now inform your employer of our ballot result, urging them to listen to the vast majority of their employees concerns over pay (a majority of members in our sister trade union Unite also rejected the offer) and to bring forward an improved offer that beats the cost of living.

GMB would also like to thank our members for making an extra effort to participate in this ballot, given the employer’s decision to refuse us workplace access to allow you to have your say on your pay offer. Your collective response has been superb.

As ever, we will update you as soon as possible with developments, and if you have any questions at all please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Diageo – Consultative Ballot FINAL REMINDER!

Our priority is the defence of your interests. That is why GMB is recommending strongly that you reject the below inflation pay offer from Diageo and that we campaign for our fair share.

GMB’s consultative ballot over your employer’s offer closes this Monday 17 September at noon – this is your final reminder to vote if you haven’t done so already.

GMB has been consistent and clear in our campaign throughout pay negotiations and this consultative ballot: Diageo can more than afford to pay you more than a below inflation offer. Against the backdrop of eye-watering £3.7 billion profits, it really is that simple.

If we don't reject Diageo's below inflation pay offer this year there will be further below inflation pay offers in years to come, making you feel poorer year on year - while those at the very top get richer and richer. 

It is your democratic right to have your say on your pay offer and that’s why your trade union has done all we can to give you that vote over the last few weeks, despite the barriers to workplace access that were put in place.

We’d like to take this opportunity to thank you for your overwhelming participation in this process despite the difficulties encountered. But if you haven’t already done so, it is still incredibly important to cast your vote. So don’t delay, vote today!

You employer has confirmed that they are awaiting our ballot result. This will be counted on Tuesday 18 September and we will notify you via SMS and email when the count is completed. 

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb . If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                                       Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                                       GMB Scotland Organiser

P.S. You deserve your fair share of Diageo's profits – that’s why GMB is urging you to vote to reject the pay offer from Diageo.

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Diageo - Pay Ballot Update - Why not offer a decent pay rise?

Diageo’s offer of a 3% below inflation pay rise and £85 increase in product allowance will leave you feeling poorer next year than you feel this year.

When talking to us at the ballot box many of you have expressed confusion and anger over why Diageo have offered such a small pay rise.

GMB has no doubt that Diageo can offer you an acceptable pay rise if they wanted to. Profits are up again in 2018 by 3.7% to £3.7 billion - and the CEO Ivan Menezes feels your performance is so 'strong and stable' that he is asking for shareholders to agree a 266% pay rise for himself.

The difference between the offer of 3% and the January RPI of 4% which your pay increase has been based on for the last 18 years is equivalent to 0.025% of Diageo’s profit.

If everyone in Scotland that GMB negotiate for were to share the pay increase Ivan Menezes is asking for it would be equivalent to over a 6.1% pay increase per member.

The only logical conclusion is that Diageo can afford to give you at least an RPI Pay rise but corporate greed means they are trying to put the squeeze on your wages. You can’t afford to allow corporate greed to come before your wages, otherwise you will see your quality of life reduce.

You deserve your fair share of Diageo's profits. This is why GMB is urging you to vote to reject the pay offer from Diageo.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb . If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                  Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                 GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Diageo - Pay Ballot Update - Why is RPI important?

The priority of GMB Scotland is the defence of your interests. That’s why we are giving our members their say on pay by conducting a consultative ballot over Diageo’s pay offer.

When conducting our ballot outside Diageo sites this week and last, many members have asked me about the role of the Retail Price Index (RPI) inflation measurement in our pay negotiations and in the pay offer.

Diageo has paid at least the equivalent to the January RPI figure for the last 18 years. That means your employer’s offer of 3 per cent is below the January 2018 RPI figure of 4 per cent - and lower than any RPI figure for the whole of last year.

But why is RPI important? For the avoidance of any doubt, RPI is a measure of inflation.

It measures how much the price of everything you have to pay for has gone up. RPI includes lots of everyday items as well as housing costs; it brings all these together to work out how much the cost of everything has gone up.

So for example July's RPI of 3.2% includes the following price rises: Petrol 12.5%; Electricity 7.4%; Clothing 5.6%; Bread 5.3%; Milk 4.3%; and Gas 4.2%.

If your wages don't keep up with RPI it means you can afford less. If you can afford less, you are having a real-terms pay cut and your standard of living will decrease.

So, in short, if your pay rise is below RPI you will feel poorer next year than you did this year.

Your GMB representatives do not believe Diageo's move away from offering a pay rise that is at least in line with RPI is a one off. And it’s a precedent we do not want to entertain either.

Against the backdrop of operating profits worth £3.7 billion, Diageo can more than afford an above inflation pay offer for its hard-working employees.

GMB does not believe that as an employee of one of the biggest and most profitable companies in the world, you should have to accept a real terms pay cut.

And that is why we are asking you to reject the Diageo pay offer.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb .

If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                                   Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                                   GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Diageo – Response to Diageo Wage Negotiation Update of 29 Aug

We have received a copy of the employee communication distributed by Diageo concerning the wage negotiations over your pay (see below).

In light of this GMB will take this opportunity to respond to the specific points made by the employer.

Let’s be clear, we do not want to get involved in a tit-for-tat exchange with your employer, but neither can we leave some of the points unchallenged.

Again, as per our communication of yesterday afternoon, our message to Diageo is clear:

Stop shifting the goalposts and let our members have their say on pay in the workplace.

In the meantime, please keep checking your mobiles and emails for the latest developments on your pay and consultative ballot.

Keir Greenaway                                                         Liz Gordon

GMB Scotland Organiser                                         GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Diageo – Why we are running a consultative ballot over pay in Diageo and asking you to #Reject

We understand that there has been some confusion among the membership about the consultative ballot over your pay offer and indeed, over the current status of the pay offer. Let’s take this chance to clarify the situation.

The priority of GMB Scotland is the defence of your interests. That’s why we moved to launch a consultative ballot over the employer’s 3 per cent offer following the close of talks last week – a process we always undertake with every pay offer or change to conditions.

It is only right and fair that our members can judge whether their employer’s offer is acceptable or unacceptable. It’s basic industrial democracy; we always want our members to have the final say on their pay and conditions.

That’s why Diageo’s decision to revoke GMB’s access to ballot our members in the workplace was an unnecessary action on the part of the employer. Furthermore, withdrawing the offer from GMB members after our reps recommend rejection is just short-sighted.

Your vote is vital, we need to know what you think of the 3% Pay offer and £85 product allowance increase. Your opinion will shape our union’s next steps.

It is also only fair that a trade union can make a recommendation to its members on an offer without fear of prejudice on the part of the employer. We believe Diageo can do better than their current offer.

This is exactly what your GMB reps told your employer today (Thursday 30 August) in a meeting at Blackgrange.

GMB members look to us for advocacy and support, and that is what we are doing. You gave us a clear instruction, as reflected in our pay claim to Diageo, to negotiate a pay increase that tackles the cost of living. This is why GMB is campaigning for a fair share of Diageo’s profit for our members and it’s why we are asking you to the reject the offer.

So our message to Diageo as of this afternoon is straight-forward: Stop shifting the goalposts and let our members have their say on pay in the workplace.

In the meantime, we have informed the employer that we are ready and willing to talk at any time and, as always, we will update you immediately on developments as they happen.

Keir Greenaway                          Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser          GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Diageo: Important Pay & Consultative Ballot Update!

Question: When is a pay offer not a pay offer? Answer: When it’s an imposition.

Diageo have written to inform GMB that they will not allow GMB Scotland to ballot its members on the employer’s pay offer.

As of yesterday (Monday 27 August), GMB have been informed that we can't ballot on the below inflation offer as it is no longer on the table. This is because we have recommended our members reject it.

Irrespective of Diageo’s attempts to obstruct GMB from consulting our members in the workplace, we will still be at your sites later this week and next, and we will stand at the gates with the ballot box instead. GMB will inform you when and where we will be.

It seems Diageo’s position means that if members of our sister trade union vote to accept the deal, Diageo will impose the offer. If they reject it, the offer will still be imposed.

In short, what your employer is telling us is that employees either accept their below inflation offer or they will impose it on them.

This is a ridiculous development. Let’s be absolutely clear that by imposing this offer and blocking a recognised trade union from consulting its members, Diageo is attempting to end pay negotiations.

We have requested that Diageo drop this barrier and allow GMB Scotland to ballot in the workplace. If not we will ballot outside. The offer affects your livelihood and no employer tactic to prevent you having your say will stop GMB balloting.

Let’s campaign for our fair share of Diageo’s £3.7 billion profits and let’s reject their below inflation pay imposition. 

Keir Greenaway                              Liz Gordon

GMB Scotland Organiser             GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Diageo: REJECT Diageo’s below inflation pay offer - Consultative ballot Wed 29 Aug to Mon 17 Sep

The priority of GMB Scotland is the defence of your interests. That’s why we have been in negotiations with your employer over your 2018/19 pay offer.

On Thursday 23 August, your employer tabled their final offer to your GMB negotiating team: 3 per cent plus an increase in product allowance to £350. 

This offer will be subject to a full consultative ballot of our GMB members, which will run from Wednesday 29 August until Monday 17 September.

GMB will strongly recommend that our members REJECT Diageo’s offer.

This offer falls well short of the January 2018 Retail Price Index (RPI) of 4 per cent, (the base for pay increases in Diageo for nearly 20 years). It also falls well short of your demands for an above inflation pay increase, as established in our pay survey https://tinyurl.com/ya6dpwa3

Diageo’s operating profits have increased by 3.7 per cent to £3.7 billion in the last year. The Chief Executive’s basic rate of pay is sixty-seven times more than the average worker - Ivan Menezes has hailed your company as “strong and stable”. 

Your employer has also refused to give any assurances whatsoever on job security for the future. Under these circumstances, GMB can see no credible alternative than to recommend a rejection of this offer.

If we do not take a stand against Diageo’s offer now then it will be the law of diminishing returns in future pay negotiations, starting with the loss of the principle of a minimum RPI award that at least meets the cost of living.

A strong and stable employer generating billions of pounds in profit can more than afford to deliver a fair share of spoils to its workers and secure employment for the foreseeable future. That Diageo are offering neither is shameful.

It is also shameful that Diageo is trying to stop GMB balloting you on the pay offer that they have put out to consultation; an attempt to prevent us from defending your interests.

This is because your GMB reps told your employer at the close of talks that they can do much better than a below inflation offer for you, that we will recommend rejection of the offer and campaign for your fair share of the £3.7 billion profits.

Only GMB members will be eligible to vote in our ballot but non-members can join GMB today at www.gmb.org.uk/join

In the meantime, if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,

 GMB Scotland in Chivas - Holiday Pay and Product Allowance

GMB believes that Chivas may not be paying the correct rate of pay to GMB members when they are on leave. Your holiday pay shouldn't just reflect your basic pay it should reflect other payments you receive. For example it should reflect overtime that you have been doing before you take leave, if you regularly do an extra hour a day overtime than when you are on leave your holiday pay should reflect that.

We are asking you to fill in this online survey or to request a paper copy from your GMB rep https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/GMB_Scotland_Pro_Forma_Holiday_Pay_Chivas. The answers from this survey will help us understand the extent of the issue when we approach Chivas to get the holiday pay issue rectified on your behalf. Please contact us if you have any further questions.

GMB will be meeting with Chivas on the 29 of August to conduct the appeal of the decision to reject your collective grievance on product allowance. Your feedback through your reps is clear, GMB cannot accept without challenge Chivas reneging on the pay deal which was to increase product allowance to £240 for 2018. GMB feels it is disrespectful to you, the hardworking staff at Chivas to not implement the pay deal in full.

We will keep you updated on both of these matters as they progress.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb . If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).


Keir Greenaway                                            Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                            GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB member,

GMB Scotland in Diageo - Your Hard Work Leads To Bumper Profits!

Diageo announced today (26 July) their preliminary financial results for 2018. It is another successful year for Diageo whose profits keep going from strength to strength. Diageo's profits are up 3.7% to £3.691 billion. This makes Diageo one of the most profitable companies in the world.

GMB knows it’s you that makes this profit, your hard work and your endeavour every time you go the extra mile for Diageo. Without the Whisky and Spirit you make, mature and bottle then Diageo couldn't make these profits.

Successful company's like Diageo are in the best position to reward their hardworking and loyal staff for making so much profit for shareholders. Therefore, we expect Diageo to offer an annual pay award that is reflective of the hard work GMB members have put in to create these eye-watering levels of profit.

The next meeting to negotiate pay will be the 22 and 23 of August. 

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updateswww.gmb.org.uk/mygmb . If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join atwww.gmb.org.uk/join 

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); andliz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness). 

Keir Greenaway                                            Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                           GMB Scotland Organiser 

Dear GMB Member,

GMB Scotland in Dewars - Your Say on Pay

The priority of GMB Scotland is the defence of your interests. That's why we recently conducted a survey on pay so you could tell us loud and clear what you think about pay in Dewars.

It's very clear from the results that you are unhappy with the current arrangements.

Here are the key findings:

• 75% of GMB members feel the mechanism for deciding performance related pay is unfair
• Half of GMB members don't know how to challenge their score
• 90% of GMB members feel pay isn't transparent
• 75% of GMB members agree you should get equal pay for an equal job
• You told us that you want to be able to negotiate your own pay

We are extremely concerned that nearly half of all women who were asked felt they could identify a male being paid more for doing the same job. It is illegal to pay women less for doing the same job as a man.

You also told us that you want us to raise a collective grievance around the issue of the pay rise not flowing through to overtime on previous years back pay. This was secured for you this year by GMB reps.

GMB have asked for a meeting with the employer to discuss what you have told us. You have been adamant in your responses to us and we will make sure this is made clear to the employer.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb . If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                       Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                      GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Whisky & Spirits – Defending Your Interests

The value of your work and skills to the Scottish economy is significant. Our mission isn’t just to defend your jobs and conditions, GMB Scotland wants to see your sector grow and thrive for generations to come. But there are headwinds approaching us.

Brexit is the biggest issue of the day. Irrespective if you voted ‘leave’ or ‘remain’, there’s no getting away from the economic and employment challenges we will soon face.  But Brexit is happening and we aren’t going to sit and wait to find out what it could mean for your jobs and industry.

Recent research commissioned by GMB Scotland revealed that exports from whisky and spirits to the EU alone is generating nearly £1.2 billion of value for the Scottish economy and supporting an estimated 12,800 jobs across the wider food and drink sector (the bulk of which are in your sector). You can read our full report here.

That’s why we have written to your employers to engage them in this discussion with GMB.

This isn’t a challenge to your employer and it’s not scaremongering. It’s an invitation to work with your trade union in an effort to chart our way through significant change and challenge, with the objective of securing employment and prosperity here in Scotland for years to come.

Let’s also be clear that this isn’t about punting party politics or political posturing, that’s not the priority of GMB Scotland.  But the defence of our members’ interests is our priority and we have to be forward thinking on matters of employment and economy.

Next to oil production, food and drink manufacturing, of which whisky and spirits production is the dominant industry, are the pillars of the Scottish economy. So much so that the recent outlook for the Scottish economy showed that exports from our oil and gas and food and drink sectors are keeping our economy just about growing.

That tells us that we cannot be complacent over the future of our whisky and spirits sector. It is far too important and valuable, not just for GMB members but for the country.

We hope you agree.

As ever, if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me on 0131 322 9270 or email keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk 

Please share this information with colleagues and check-in for regular updates at our dedicated GMB Scotland Whisky and Spirits campaign page.  Remember colleagues can join GMB online at www.gmbscotland/join

Keir Greenaway
GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member,

GMB Scotland in Diageo – Diageo Pay Negotiations 2018/19 update

GMB requested that we meet with Diageo over a two day period to try and get the pay negotiations resolved as quickly as possible. This request has been granted and two days of talks have been arranged for Wednesday 22 & Thursday 23 August. It is unfortunate that the negotiations now won't restart until August; however, this is due to the availability of everyone involved.

GMB will communicate with you before, during and after these negotiations, keeping you fully updated.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb . If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                            Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                            GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member,

GMB Scotland in Chivas - Product Allowance Grievance

We have written to Scott Livingstone HR Director to appeal the decision to not uphold GMB's Collective Grievance. As part of the wage negotiations and the agreement on pay, your Product Allowance was set to increase from £200 to £240. However, Chivas are looking to only increase by £20 in 2018 and then full £40 in 2019.

GMB are very disappointed that Chivas are not following the agreement to increase your product allowance to £240 in 2018. The saving that Chivas are making by not following the agreement is around £25,000. GMB doesn't believe that making this saving is worth the damage to morale caused by not implementing what you agreed.

GMB will keep you updated with the progress of your grievance.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb . If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                            Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                            GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member,

GMB Scotland in Diageo – Diageo Pay Negotiations 2018/19 Update

Having written to Diageo last week GMB received a reply and Diageo will now be setting up further negotiation meetings. GMB have requested that Diageo arranges two consecutive days of meetings so that we conclude negotiations over these two days.

You have told your reps that you don't want pay negotiations to drag on for weeks and that you want them concluding as soon as possible. GMB believes this is also in the interest of the employer, so we can't see why they wouldn't agree to this way forward.

GMB wants to have a pay offer from Diageo as soon as possible and when we have an offer from Diageo you will be balloted on it.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates www.gmb.org.uk/mygmb . If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so.  They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                            Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                            GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Edrington – Important Update!

Edrington today have announced that they will be selling two of their brands Cutty Sark and Glenturret.

This will have the potential effect of reducing volume of output from Great Western Road by 10 per cent. Edrington have said they do not foresee this leading to compulsory redundancies.

GMB will be meeting with Edrington next week and we will be discussing their plans to avoid compulsory redundancies as well as the potential TUPE process for the staff at Glenturret.

GMB will campaign to defend your interests throughout this process.

Please ensure your membership and contact details, particularly mobiles, are up to date in order to receive our latest updates. If you know colleagues who haven't yet joined GMB, there's never been a better time to do so. They can join at www.gmb.org.uk/join

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh); and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                        Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                       GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Diageo – Important Pay Negotiations Update

GMB Scotland reps alongside Unite presented your pay claim to Diageo nearly three weeks ago. As part of your pay claim we asked for an above inflation pay rise. Over the last 18 years, Diageo used January RPI as the anchor point for negotiations.

This year inflation stood at 4% in January. You told us you wanted an above inflation pay rise as anything less than 4% would be a pay cut. You also asked for an employment guarantee, re-introduction of a bonus and increased product allowance.

You can access a copy of GMB’s pay claim here: https://bit.ly/2JPlfDF

GMB Scotland and Unite have attended three days of joint negotiation. Diageo informed the trade unions that their stakeholders had considered not offering a pay rise this year but despite that they proposed a 2% pay rise.

However, Diageo wouldn't consider any of the other elements of your pay claim. Over the three days of talks, GMB and Unite made every effort to ensure the negotiations were constructive and fast paced.

We made two concessions; from 6% to 5.7% and from 5.7% to 5.4%. After these two concessions Diageo were only willing to increase their initial offer from 2% to 2.1%. The increase of 0.1% on Diageo's proposal is equivalent to £90,000.

At this stage Diageo adjourned the meeting on Monday 11 June without organising further dates for negotiations. This makes it very unlikely you will now receive any pay rise in time with your pay anniversary date of 1 July.

GMB Scotland and Unite will now write to Diageo to reiterate our desire to reach an agreement on pay that you, our members, find agreeable and that we want to do this in a timely manner.

As ever, we will keep you fully up to date with any developments as they happen.  If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh) and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).


Keir Greenaway                       Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser         GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member 

GMB Scotland in Diageo – Pay Negotiations Update 

Please see below the agreed joint statement from pay negotiations on 31 May: 

Message from Joint Negotiation Group

The Joint Unions and the Company met today to continue discussions on this year's wage claim.

At the session both groups shared their positions through discussions which were open and frank.

At the end of a difficult day it was agreed to meet again on Monday 11 June and in advance of this meeting Union reps would engage with their members

GMB Scotland will continue to keep you updated on the progress of the negotiations. Your local GMB reps will be briefed and will come to speak to you as soon as possible, please find time to talk to them and give them your feedback.

In the meantime, if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh) and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                                        Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                                        GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Diageo – Pay Negotiations Update

Please see below the agreed joint statement from today’s pay negotiation:

Update from Joint Wage Negotiations – Wednesday 23 May 2018

Representatives of the Joint Trade Unions and the Company have been meeting to discuss the pay claims which have been received by the business.

During the course of the discussions, all parties shared their positions but no agreement was reached.

The discussions have therefore been adjourned and will be reconvened on Thursday 31 May 2018.

This date was originally scheduled for further discussion on the collective agreement and an alternative date is to be scheduled.

GMB will continue to keep you fully updated on your pay negotiations.

A full copy of your GMB Scotland pay claim to Diageo for 2018 can be downloaded here https://tinyurl.com/ya6dpwa3

In the meantime, if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh) and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                                        Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                                        GMB Scotland Organiser

P.S. Remember! GMB is campaigning for a 6% pay rise, employment guarantees, a new bonus scheme and increased product allowance.

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Chivas - Collective Grievance Update

The priority of GMB Scotland is the defence of your interests. That's why GMB Scotland will be meeting with Chivas management on Friday 25 May to discuss your collective grievance.

It is not right that Chivas aren’t holding up their side of the bargain in your pay deal. GMB Scotland are clear that you were told that your product allowance increase would be for 2018 not half of 2018.

GMB Scotland believe you should get the pay and benefits you agreed and will keep you updated with the outcome of the grievance procedure.

As always, if you have any issues or questions you can contact us on 0131 322 9270 or via email: gmbscotcampaigns@gmb.org.uk

Members in the Highlands & Islands can also contact our GMB Scotland Organiser Liz Gordon on 01463 233088.

Keir Greenaway                                              Liz Gordon
GMB Scotland Organiser                              GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Diageo – Your 2018 Pay Claim

The priority of GMB Scotland is the defence of your interests – that’s why we extensively surveyed our members in Diageo before forming your pay claim for 2018.

The pay survey returns outlined that you wanted an award that improved your standard of living. This means an award above the inflation figure always used by Diageo, January’s RPI, which was 4 per cent.

That’s why your GMB workplace reps agreed, while also considering your employer’s remarkable financial results, that our claim should be for a 6 per cent pay increase across the board.

Other items you wanted included was an employment guarantee which includes an agreement around TUPE, a new bonus scheme but linked to Diageo’s profits and a substantial increase to your product allowance. 

A full copy of GMB Scotland’s pay claim to Diageo for 2018 can be downloaded here https://tinyurl.com/ya6dpwa3

In the meantime, if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk / 0131 322 9270 (Edinburgh) and liz.gordon@gmb.org.uk / 01463 233088 (Inverness).

Keir Greenaway                                                         Liz Gordon

GMB Scotland Organiser                                          GMB Scotland Organiser

P.S. GMB is campaigning for a 6% pay rise, employment guarantees, a new bonus scheme and increased product allowance.

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland Whisky & Spirits - Brexit and the defence of jobs

The priority of GMB Scotland is the defence of your interests. We have been busy meeting with the Scottish Whisky Association, representing Whisky & Spirits at STUC, giving evidence in the Scottish Parliament and meeting with the Scottish Parliament Cabinet Member for Economy, Jobs and Fair Work.

GMB Scotland has been campaigning to make sure everyone is aware of the very real concerns for your jobs and communities post-Brexit.

GMB Scotland are concerned by some of the complacency and naivety we have found during our conversations.

We will not sit by while we have the very real threat that politicians in Westminster could throw Scottish Whisky and Spirit jobs under the bus in the pursuit of quick trade deals with the USA and India to save their own political careers.

During our meeting with the Cabinet Member for Economy, Jobs and Fair Work it became apparent they share many of our concerns and we will continue to work with them and pursue every available avenue to protect the Whisky and Spirit industry, your jobs and the communities they support.

We will be writing to each employer to find out their concerns and what steps they will be taking to maximise the protection of Scottish jobs in the Whisky and Spirits sector.

As ever, if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me on 0131 322 9270 or email keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk Please also check-in for regular updates at our dedicated whisky and spirits campaign page: http://www.gmbscotland.org.uk/campaigns/whisky-and-spirits

Keir Greenaway
GMB Scotland Organiser
 

 Dear GMB Member

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Whisky & Spirits Update!

The priority of GMB Scotland is the defence of your interests.

That’s why this morning (Tuesday 17 April) we’ve called on the Scottish trade union movement to come together and fight for the defence of jobs in our whisky and spirits sector.

As you know, against the backdrop of Brexit and future trade renegotiations, we have been pursuing the UK Government for the last eighteen months to bring forward the necessary protections to secure the future for nearly 13,000 jobs dependent on our world class whisky and spirits sector.

With whisky and spirits generating nearly £1.2 billion in exports to the European Union (EU), a significant portion of Scotland’s prosperity is on the line and the UK Government needs to act now, not later.

GMB Scotland also met with the Scottish Whisky Association (13 April). GMB and SWA share a number of concerns around the potential impact of Brexit even though they seem complacent about some of the challenges ahead.

We know that SWA are the representatives of the employers whose primary motive is to profit from Scotland. GMB will look for all allies in the fight to protect your industry and jobs.

You can access a copy of our speech to the STUC Conference here https://tinyurl.com/y7mtjqtv

As ever, if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me at keir.greenaway@gmb.org.uk or call 0131 332 9270.

Keir Greenaway
GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Diageo – Latest updates!

Organiser Changes

Our GMB National Pensions Officer, Keir Greenaway, who many of you will be familiar with, will be taking over from me as our Scottish Organiser for Whisky & Spirits as of Tuesday 3 April.  Liz Gordon will continue as Organiser for our Northern Operations.

Collective Bargaining Update

Discussions remain on-going around the new collective agreement in Diageo and we will let you know when we have a date for the next meeting as soon as it’s confirmed. 

Again, we very much share your frustrations about the protracted time this is taking, largely shaped by factors out with GMB Scotland’s control.

2018/2019 Pay Discussions & Pay Survey

As ever, pay is the priority in the defence of your interests. You will shortly receive a pay survey to gauge your expectations for our 2018/19 pay claim.  We will also shortly be seeking dates from Diageo for initial discussions on the 2018/19 offer. 

Get involved!

It’s never been more important to be a GMB member and to get involved in Scotland’s campaigning trade union.

Please make sure your contact details are fully to up to date with your local GMB reps (particularly mobiles and emails) to make sure you get the latest communications.

And if your colleagues haven’t yet joined a trade union, then they can sign-up today online at: www.gmb.org.uk/join

As always, if you have any questions then please do not hesitate to contact us on 0141 352 8117 (Glasgow), 01463 233088 (Inverness) or email diageocampaigns@gmb.org.uk

Louise Gilmour                                 Liz Gordon

GMB Scotland Organiser                GMB Scotland Organiser

Dear GMB Member

GMB Scotland in Diageo – Facilities Management TUPE update

As you are aware discussions have been taken place around the TUPE transfer of facilities management staff to Sodexo. These discussions have been on-going since November and this involves fourteen employees, three of which are represented by GMB.

The current position of our members is that two have requested to be redeployed and will hopefully be in position by the end of March, while one wished to accept a financial package. I expect this to be finalised with the employer shortly.

However, you will now be aware that our sister union Unite has served notice on Diageo to run a consultative ballot, despite GMB and Unite still completing the process to secure the futures’ of those members affected.

Unite’s position, as we understand it, is for a commitment that no employee will be in a TUPE position moving forward and that they are prepared to take industrial action to secure this commitment.

GMB has no desire whatsoever to harm JTU relations but we cannot see a position where Diageo would give such as guarantee and not least in the absence of a binding collective agreement.

Certainly, GMB believes that a new collective agreement - which we have been actively trying to negotiate - gives us the best possible chance to achieve the maximum job security for all our members.

As such, this is where we believe our priorities should lie, particularly as we are still in a process of finalising the futures of our own members affected by this TUPE issue.

GMB representatives will meet again with Diageo tomorrow from 10AM at Blackgrange to discuss the new collective agreement and we hope we will be joined by our colleagues from Unite too.

In the meantime, if you have any questions then please do not hesitate to contact me on 0141 332 8641 or email louise.gilmour@gmb.org.uk

Louise Gilmour
GMB Scotland Senior Organiser