Employees at a Weetabix production plant in the UK staged a 24-hour strike yesterday in a dispute over pay.

The workers at the cereal bars facility in Northamptonshire in the English Midlands downed tools at 7pm local time on Monday (16 August).

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The dispute with Weetabix – owned by US-based Post Holdings – is over pay for shifts during unsocial hours. Staff have rejected an offer from the company.

Speaking on Monday, Ed Leach, area organiser for the trade union Usdaw, which represents workers at the site, said further strikes would follow the 24-hour stoppage unless the company changes its position.

He said: “During the last fortnight we have called off strike action twice to allow for further talks and for the company to make an offer. The offer was put to a ballot which concluded today. The majority of our members rejected the company’s offer, therefore strike action will take place at 7pm today.

“We are disappointed that the company has indicated at this stage there will be no change to their position. If this is the case, then further stoppages will follow.”

A Weetabix spokesperson told Just Food: “We are naturally disappointed to see our cereal bars team on strike, but respect their right to do so.

“Our success over nearly 90 years is built on a strong relationship with our workforce. To continue to meet the expectations of our customers and consumers it is important that our ways of working evolve, and as a business we continue to invest in our people, plants, and products.

“Our door remains open to our team and their representatives, and we remain committed to finding a fair solution that implements the necessary changes to keep jobs in Northamptonshire.”

Breakfast cereal Weetabix has been made at the facility in Burton Latimer, near Kettering, since 1932.