Around 300 Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy wind turbine workers in Hull have accepted a pay deal worth 8.4%, ending an ongoing dispute.
The employees, who construct 108-metre-long wind turbine blades by hand, are members of trade union Unite. A total of 93% voted to accept the two-year pay deal of 4.5% for 2024 and 3.9% for 2025.
The deal was secured without the need for industrial action, following constructive negotiations.
The workers were unhappy with a previous 4.5% pay offer, as well as an opaque incentive scheme, from their employer. They were balloted for strike action until 24 July and strikes were set to be scheduled after this.
According to Unite, wages at the Hull factory have dropped by 11.9% in real terms since 2018 due to below inflation pay rises. The employees believe their pay has been suppressed through a performance-related bonus scheme.
Furthermore, Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy, which owns the factory, made £394 million in profits over the last five years and paid out two dividends worth £226 million during the same period. Its 2024 revenue is expected to reach £1.5 billion, with pre-tax profits to hit £100 million.
A Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy spokesperson said: “We are pleased negotiations have led to a positive outcome and we can continue to focus on the important role we play together, delivering on the UK’s energy transition.”
Sharon Graham, general secretary at Unite, added: “Well done to our reps and members at Siemens Gamesa who secured this deal by standing together in their union. This deal shows that Unite’s relentless focus on improving jobs, pay and conditions is paying dividends for our members.”
Harriet Eisner, regional coordinating officer at Unite, said: “This result is an example of why those wanting better wages and working conditions should join Unite and organise their colleagues to do the same.”
