UK crisps crisis as warning issued over Hula Hoops and other favourites
It's now 'crunch time' for KP snacks after the GMB union voted for strikes.
Supplies of some of the UK's favourite crisps like Hula Hoops, McCoy’s, Pom‑Bears and Discos could be disrupted after dozens of workers at KP Snacks voted to strike. The walkout, on dates the GMB union has yet to agree, at the site in Billingham, County Durham, is part of a long-running dispute over additional duties imposed without extra pay or proper consultation.
The union claims that bosses at the busy factory have cut the process workers' breaks to a single break per shift. They claim: "Workers have also raised concerns that operational changes have compromised safety, including leaving heat exchangers running during breaks without proper supervision.
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"GMB Union will now meet with members to discuss strike dates - any industrial action could disrupt the supply of popular snack brands, including Hula Hoops, McCoy’s, Pom‑Bears and Discos."
Workers have also raised concerns that operational changes have compromised safety, including leaving heat exchangers running during breaks without proper supervision.
Paul Clark, GMB Organiser, said: "These workers are skilled, experienced and absolutely vital to keeping KP Snacks’ production lines running and supermarket shelves stocked.
"The company has unilaterally expanded their roles, increased their workload and expected them to take on additional responsibilities, all without offering a single penny more in pay.
"That simply isn’t fair and this is crunch time for KP Snacks.
"If the company wants to avoid empty shelves and disruption, it needs to return to the table with a serious offer that properly recognises the work these staff do."
In August, workers declined a 77p per hour salary rise, but there was not enough support for strike action.
In November after a vote to strike a spokesperson for KP said: "Robust contingency plans are in place to minimise disruption and ensure continuity of supply.
"We are disappointed by the outcome of this ballot, which involves a small number of our colleagues at Teesside, and we remain in ongoing discussions with them and the GMB.
"We value the Teesside team and the important role they play in producing our products and remain committed to constructive dialogue to find a resolution."
