Broughton: Workers at company which supplies Airbus begin strike action

More than 40 skilled workers at Metal Improvement Company (MIC) are on the picket line today (August 17) in the first of a number of days of strike action over pay.

The company, which produces coatings to protect a range of components for the aerospace industry, made pre-tax profits of £36.2 million in 2021, a 26 per cent increase from the previous year.

But Unite the union has said the company is offering workers a pay deal which significantly falls behind national inflation rates.

READ MORE: Royal Mail staff announce four day strike over August and September

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “This specialist manufacturing company has the financial resources to support its workforce with a pay deal which keeps up with inflation.

“The workers have Unite’s full support. They deserve a fair pay deal which protects their incomes and recognises the contribution the workers have made to this successful business.”

We’re in Broughton, Flintshire, this morning where our members from Metal Improvement Company have begun a period of strike action.

Our message is clear, we want a fairer deal for our members to help them pay their bills and put food on the table during these difficult times. pic.twitter.com/4sJ3Wqm3sC

— UniteWales (@UniteWales) August 17, 2022

Strike action by MIC workers is also planned for August 24 and 31, and companies it supplies, such as Airbus and Magellan Aerospace, will experience supply chain interruption, creating a possible loss of production time.

Unite regional officer Jono Davies said: “Bosses have refused to sit down across the table and negotiate. Their failure to engage is now leading to a series of strikes.

“It’s time for management to face the union and negotiate a fair pay deal.”

MIC has been approached for comment. 

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