Newtownards strike action could see shortage of UHT milk in local supermarkets

Newtownards strike action could see shortage of UHT milk in local supermarkets

There could be a shortage of UHT milk in Northern Irish shops as workers at a Newtownards-based processor vote to take strike action.

Members of Unite, the union, at UHT milk processor LE Pritchitt & Company Limited have voted unanimously to take strike action later this month after rejecting a 6.2% pay increase.

The industrial action will take place from 6am on Wednesday, February 21 and will last for seven days until 5.59am on Wednesday, February 28.

Unite says that it represent the majority of the production workers at the factory, which employs roughly 200 people, and that the company is struggling to recurit and retain new staff.

It said LE Pritchitt & Company Limited have seen a 40% increase in revenue to £180.8million from £129.3million in the 12 months to the end of 2022, according to the company’s latest accounts.

The strike action will see the shutdown of production at the factory site, with the union warning that it will have an “immediate impact” in the availablity of UHT milk products in supermarkets and shops.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Unite members at Pritchitt fully deserve a decent pay deal. This company has enjoyed a huge increase in its turnover and profitability in the last year and it can well afford to pay its workers a fair pay increase.

“Unite does what it says on the trade union tin and always prioritises the jobs, pay and conditions of its members. The workers at Pritchitt will receive the union’s unfettered support.”

Unite regional officer Albert Hewitt said, “Strike action will result in an immediate shutdown in production at the site. The result will be an immediate impact on the availability of UHT milk products in local supermarkets.

“Management need to immediately return to the negotiating table and make an offer that meets our members’ legitimate pay expectations.”

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