This comes after the firm reached a mutual agreement with union representatives during recent negotiations.
Airdrie-based spirits producer Inver House Distillers has introduced collective bargaining units across select areas of the company’s Scotland-based production team.
This comes after the firm reached a mutual agreement with union representatives during recent negotiations.
The new measure formalises the company’s existing framework for collective bargaining in some areas of the business, meaning union members will now be collectively represented by the GMB Union when it comes to certain aspects of their employment.
The agreement will primarily relate to warehouse operator, distillery operator and relief security roles at the company’s headquarters as well as two of the company’s distilleries, where union membership is most prevalent.
The voluntary decision is the sole outcome of several months of discussions with the GMB Union, which has a long-standing relationship with Inver House Distillers and represents 14 per cent of the company’s 321 strong team in the UK.
For Malcolm Leask, managing director of Inver House Distillers trading as International Beverage, the decision to formalise this existing process is a reinforcement of the company’s commitment to supporting the individual needs of every person in the business.
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He said: “During recent talks, we explored the topic of collective bargaining to decide whether or not it would be right for our business.
“Whilst the system we had in place served our people well for many years, there was a wish to evolve and introduce more formal collective bargaining units amongst some of our production teams.
“We welcomed their views and made changes that I’m pleased to say were mutually agreeable with our colleagues and union associates.
“This positive and proactive action reinforces our commitment to taking decisions that are in the best interests of our people, as we build our business for the future.”
David Hume, GMB Scotland organiser in the whisky industry, welcomed the recognition agreement, adding: “A solid framework for formal engagement with trade unions builds stable and co-operative organisations, benefiting both workers and employers.
“We look forward to continuing to work constructively with Inver House Distillers towards common goals and help their expertise and commitment shape the company’s future success.”
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