The GMB Union has warned that 750 staff have staged a walk-out at the factory that makes Jacob’s Cream Crackers, Jaffa Cakes and Mini Cheddars today (November 14).
The latest strike action comes after negotiations over pay have gone on for over a year, according to union sources.
Strike action has raised concern over shortages of the much loved snacks as we head into a busy festive period for shoppers.
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It is understood that the GMB has asked for a 10% increase, which is in line with the rate of inflation.
But, employees have so far only been offered a rise of 4.25%.
National officer Eamon O’Hearn said: “These workers are rightly angry – they put themselves on the line to keep the company going during the pandemic.
(Image: Dan Saunders)
“Now they need some help to get them through the cost-of-living crisis, but it’s falling on deaf ears.
“Jacob’s workers will now be on strike 24 hours a day, seven days a week until the company comes back to the negotiating table.”
The company which is also well known for producing Twiglets and Club bars, as well as 14,000 tons of Jacob’s Cream Crackers every year, is thought to believe that an increase in pay for its staff would be unaffordable.
(Image: Clive Gee/PA Wire)
The Jacob’s were originally bakers based in Waterford, Ireland, and began making biscuits in their Aintree factory near Liverpool in 1914.
It was here that they became famous for their cream crackers, as well their other popular products including Jaffa Cakes and Cheddars.
Jacob’s parent company, London-based Pladis Global, was contacted for comment.
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