Around 100 workers employed by ABM at London Stansted Airport are set to go on strike in May after rejecting what they describe as an "unacceptable" pay offer. The industrial action is scheduled to take place from May 3 to May 6, coinciding with the first May bank holiday weekend.
Background of the Dispute
The workers, many of whom perform essential duties such as escorting passengers on and off flights and guiding them through the airport, had previously planned to strike from April 17 to 20. That action was suspended to allow staff to vote on a last-minute pay proposal, but the offer has now been rejected, leading to the renewed strike.
Unite, the union representing the workers, has condemned the situation. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham stated: "ABM staff do a vital job for passengers at the airport, yet they are struggling with low pay while their employer makes huge profits. This situation is unacceptable and workers at ABM continue to have Unite's full support."
Key Demands and Company Profits
According to Unite, many of the workers are paid below the London Living Wage of £14.80 per hour. In contrast, ABM, a highly profitable global company, reported in March that it generated $2.2 billion in revenue, an increase of 6.1% compared to the previous year.
ABM UK is a leading facilities management company responsible for the day-to-day operations and maintenance of large-scale commercial and public facilities. Its services include professional cleaning, technical engineering maintenance, and physical security for corporate offices, shopping centres, airports, and distribution hubs.
Impact on Passengers
The strike is expected to cause disruption during the busy bank holiday weekend, potentially affecting passengers with disabilities who rely on assistance services provided by ABM staff. Unite has emphasized that the industrial action involves workers who look after passengers with disabilities at the airport.
The Mirror has contacted ABM for comment, but no response has been received at the time of publication.
