Members of the Unite union who manage baggage carousels at Heathrow are being balloted about industrial action in a dispute about pay.
The union said that about 170 workers at Vanderlande Industries conduct high-end maintenance and servicing of baggage carousels, ensuring passengers’ luggage is delivered into the terminal buildings safely.
“If Unite members take industrial action it will bring all terminals and airline baggage handling to a standstill,” warned the union.
The ballot opens today (August 11) for three weeks until September 1.
The union reported that Vanderlande Industries has made two below-inflation pay offers of 5% and 2.5% that have been “roundly” rejected by Unite members.
Sharon Graham, Unite general secretary, said: “Workers at Heathrow Airport employed by Vanderlande do a safety and security critical role that passengers depend on.
“The fact that their employer refuses to recognise this, as shown by their pitiful pay offer, speaks volumes.
“They should be ashamed that, during a cost-of-living crisis, they are acting in such a penny-pinching manner while their bottom line shows just how much money they are making.”
Russ Ball, Unite regional officer, added: “Vanderlande is treating its workers appallingly and Unite’s complete focus on the jobs, pay and conditions of its members will mean that our members at Heathrow will receive the union’s unflinching support.”
Travel Weekly has contacted Vanderlande Industries for comment.
Picture of baggage carousels at Heathrow by Milosz Maslanka/Shutterstock.com