Tata Consumer Products, owner of Tetley Tea, has initiated legal action against the striking factory workers, accusing them of trespassing during an ongoing dispute over wages.
The company applied for an injunction for trespassing after workers entered Tetley’s Teesside production site in County Durham, breaching picketing rules and engaging in “intimidating” behavior towards managers.
Tetley’s largest production site globally, the Teesside facility is responsible for producing 30% of the tea consumed in the UK. The legal dispute arose after nearly 150 GMB union members went on strike last month, in protest against real pay cuts over several years. GMB has warned that strikes could lead to tea shortages, with further industrial action planned for later this week.
Tata Consumer Products insists the strike must be peaceful and follow agreed guidelines, which include preventing strikers from reaching the factory premises. A company spokesperson said the rules were clearly communicated to employees, and any breach was considered trespassing. The case is scheduled to be heard in court on Wednesday.
Paul Clark, one of the GMB organisers, has accused Tetley’s management of trying to intimidate workers rather than address their concerns over wages, alleging that employers are spending money on “trumped-up” legal claims rather than resolving the pay dispute.
Despite previous negotiations, Tata remains firm on its position, noting that it has made two wage offers and implemented contingency plans to minimize supply disruptions. The company confirmed its commitment to maintaining its UK operations but warned it must remain competitive to support the plant’s future growth.
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