The first ballot was held for 28 press and pre-press workers, formerly of the group’s Washington site, which was destroyed last year (PrintWeek, 27 November). The second was held for 18 press and pre-press employees at Reed Packaging.
GPMU national officer Mike Griffiths said that all employees balloted at Reed Packaging had endorsed action, while only two at Reed Print & Design voted against industrial action.
“It’s one of the most conclusive results that we’ve ever had. We will now serve a seven-day notice, so action could start Tuesday week [24 February]. We’re making a final plea to the company for more discussions,” said Griffiths.
He added that while the issue of switching from a double-day to continental shift was the primary concern to members there were other issues like the switch from weekly to monthly pay.
The industrial action could include working to rule, the end of flexibility, an overtime ban and stoppages.
Reed Print & Design managing director Mark Reed said that he had written to the union two weeks ago to seek clarification on the dispute.
“We have not yet been advised of any forthcoming action from either ballot. It is disappointing that the GPMU has chosen to talk about its intended actions to PrintWeek in preference to, and ahead of, ourselves,” said Reed.
Reed added that the group’s recovery plan, which would have saved the majority of the jobs from Washington, was in line with national and house agreements at the 350-employee group.
Story by John Davies
Reed staff strike over shift dispute
GPMU members at Reed Print & Design and Reed Packaging have voted for industrial action in a dispute over a change in shift patterns and conditions as the firm attempts to recover from the loss of its main plant and head office.
