Red Handling has committed to fixing problems regarding late and missing pension payments for its more than 100 workers based at Gatwick Airport, resulting in them calling off industrial action.
The staff work in baggage handling, check-in and flight dispatching, and are members of trade union Unite.
They went on strike over Easter due to long-standing issues with their pensions, which included having contributions not paid and plans not set up. They were set to strike on 11, 18, 25 May and 1 June, but these dates were cancelled after receiving proof of payment of pension contributions from Red Handling to its provider, Royal London.
Red Handling will hold individual workshops for every employee to look at their contributions to ensure accuracy, with Unite supporting those with outstanding pension issues to ensure these are corrected.
The employer has also agreed to cover the loss of interest on any contributions not paid. There will be an independent audit to ensure this does not happen again.
The workers had also complained of being overworked, not having proper breaks between shifts and receiving their pay late. They have now voted on new working terms, which include receiving overtime pay and guaranteed time off.
Sharon Graham, general secretary at Unite, said: “The way Red Handling was playing fast and loose with our members’ pensions was completely unacceptable and we are glad they have come to their senses and paid up.”
Ben Davis, regional officer at Unite, added: “The situation with pensions, late wages and a lack of breaks was taking a big toll on our members and they are glad this has now been resolved.”
Red Handling was contacted for comment prior to publication.
