Delivery drivers for The Co-operative will be voting on a package of proposals aimed at settling a dispute over the outsourcing of jobs.
Following two days of talks between trade union Unite, The Co-operative and conciliation service Acas, Unite recommended its 700 delivery driver members accept the deal put on the table. Results of the ballot will be known after the Easter break.
Drivers had threatened to walk out over the retailer's plan to outsource jobs to Eddie Stobart.
Acas said in a statement:“After intensive talks, Acas has helped the Co-op and Unite to reach agreement on a set of revised proposals, which Unite will now fully recommend to their members. The proposals include improvements for employees at the Coventry depot and longer-term assurances across the wider Co-op network.
“In recognition of this Unite has agreed to suspend any industrial action until the outcome of the ballot.Acas are pleased that the talks have been held in a constructive manner and collaborative spirit.”
Unite national officer for retail distribution Adrian Jones added: “We are now confident that our members have a secure future with the Co-op and that our concerns about the future of in-house transport have been fully addressed.Our members have been given a firm commitment for their future in line with the business’ five-year plan.
“Our members at Coventry, who will be transferring to Eddie Stobart, have been given extra assurances that provide confidence for their own futures outside of the Co-op.”
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