Workers at Felixstowe, the UK’s largest container port, have backed strike action in a dispute over pay that will cause “major logistical problems”.
The potential impact of the planned strike will depend on how long it lasts, if it goes ahead, and whether it results in shipping lines cancelling calls at the port or transferring those calls to other ports in the UK or in mainland Europe. Dates for possible strike action have not yet been announced by the Unite union, but action is expected to take place in August.
The news comes alongside an announcement of balloting at Liverpool docks, as 500 workers employed at MDHC Container Services vote on whether to strike over pay and conditions. If the employees back the industrial action, stoppages could begin at the end of August.
Vessel schedules and port congestion has already been affected as a consequence of ongoing strike action in Europe, which will continue to have a ripple effect on container flows and carrier performance around the world for some time.
Bronel Group are already planning for disruption at Felixstowe and are closely monitoring the situation and will advise our customers on any developments with planned strike action.
If you have any questions regarding possible strike action, the Bronel team will be happy to assist any way they can.
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