Manchester Stagecoach drivers vote on strike action after rejecting pay offer

More than 1,000 Manchester Stagecoach drivers are being balloted for industrial action over pay.

Their trade union, Unite, said the drivers have rejected a pay offer of four per cent, from June 2023, with a further four per cent in December.

The union said with the current rate of inflation, RPI, standing at 11.3%, this is a real terms pay cut.

Unite says Stagecoach’s latest financial report showed its adjusted profit before tax increased 98% to £36.4m in the six months to October 29, 2022. It said for the 2021/2022 financial year, Stagecoach reported revenues of almost £1.2bn, with adjusted profits of £72.7m.

Unite general secretary, Sharon Graham, said: “Stagecoach is a hugely profitable company.

“The money is there for the company to provide its Manchester drivers a pay increase that reflects increasing living costs and the demands of what is a difficult and stressful role.

“Improving jobs, pay and conditions is Unite’s absolute priority and our Manchester Stagecoach members will receive the union’s complete support.”

The ballot for strike action opens today (July 6) and closes on July 27.

Strike action would severely impact bus services across the whole of Manchester, said Unite.

Unite regional officer, Colin Hayden, said: “Stagecoach can prevent this dispute from escalating by putting forward an offer that our hard working members can accept. Unite urges Stagecoach to return to negotiations and table a deal that improves on the inadequate one currently on offer.”

Stageoach has been contacted for comment.