Workers at Inver House Distilleries, including those at Balmenach Distillery near Cromdale, are set to vote on potential strike action following a breakdown in pay negotiations.
GMB Scotland, the union representing the workers, has initiated a three-week ballot for industrial action after the company rejected calls for a 4% pay rise.
The union claims that Inver House, which operates five distilleries across the Highlands and Speyside, has refused to engage with the conciliation service Acas.
David Hume, GMB Scotland organiser in the whisky industry, stated: “Our members accepted below inflation rises during the cost of living crisis and any pay offer must reflect that.
“With inflation rising again and household bills still high, our members are clear that a below inflation offer will not be accepted”.
The potential strike action could affect production at several well-known distilleries, including Knockdhu in Huntly, Speyburn in Rothes, Balblair in Tain, Old Pulteney in Wick, and Balmenach Distillery in Grantown on Spey. It may also impact the production of Caorunn Gin, another popular brand owned by Inver House.
Inver House Distillers, a subsidiary of International Beverage Holdings Limited (InterBev), which is owned by Thai Beverage Public Company Limited (ThaiBev), reported profits of £600 million last year. The company employs approximately 280 people across Scotland.
A spokeswoman for Inver House expressed disappointment at the union’s decision to ballot its members, stating: “All our employees have been given an annual pay rise that is in line with inflation, as we have consistently done in previous years, alongside an annual bonus paid in December.
“It is therefore a misrepresentation to state that this year’s figure is below inflation”.
The outcome of this ballot could have significant implications for the Scottish whisky industry, which is a crucial contributor to the country’s economy.
In 2024, the sector generated £5.4 billion in exports, highlighting its importance to Scotland’s economic landscape.
As the situation unfolds, both parties will be closely watching the results of the ballot, which could potentially lead to disruptions in production and transport within one of Scotland’s most iconic industries.
