Stagecoach Bus Drivers in Lancashire Vote on Strike Action

Strategic Insights -

Bus drivers at Stagecoach in three Lancashire towns - Birkenhead, Chorley, and Preston - are voting on whether to take strike action due to significant pay disparities between Stagecoach drivers and those working for other companies. Unite, the union representing the drivers, reports that Arriva drivers in Birkenhead earn £2.69 more per hour than Stagecoach drivers, while similar gaps of around £2.13 per hour exist in Chorley and Preston.

Key Takeaways:

  • The dispute centers on significant pay differences between Stagecoach drivers and those working for other companies in the same areas, with Arriva drivers in Birkenhead earning £2.69 more per hour than Stagecoach drivers.
  • Stagecoach recorded an operating profit of £51.1 million last year, up from £33.1 million the previous year, raising questions about the company's ability to address the pay disparities.
  • Unite general secretary Sharon Graham has called on Stagecoach to put forward an offer that tackles the unfair pay disparities, stating that the union will provide maximum support to its members.
  • The strike ballot will remain open until August 28, with industrial action possible soon after if the vote favors it, with over 500 drivers voting on whether to take strike action.

Statistics:

  • Stagecoach recorded an operating profit of £51.1 million last year, up from £33.1 million the previous year.
  • Arriva drivers in Birkenhead earn £2.69 more per hour than Stagecoach drivers.
  • Similar gaps of around £2.13 per hour exist in Chorley and Preston between Stagecoach drivers and those working for other companies.

Sources:

  • Unite the union
  • Stagecoach
  • IMAGE: https://imagestore.jpimedia.uk/webimg/11121658.jpg
  • CAPTION: Around 500 Stagecoach bus drivers in Birkenhead, Chorley, and Preston are currently voting on whether to take strike action