Barry Callebaut agrees 10% pay increase for UK chocolate workers

Approximately 200 workers, mainly production operatives and technicians,  at the chocolate factory will benefit from the one-year pay deal relating to salaries, bonuses and pensions.

Unite said the deal was secured without the need for industrial action.

Sharon Graham, Unite general secretary, said: “When employers can afford to put forward a decent pay rise, we are determined to ensure that they do. Once again, Unite’s total focus on boosting jobs, pay and conditions has delivered for our members. This deal could not have been achieved without the efforts of our representatives at Barry Callebaut and the support of Unite members​.”

Belgium-Swiss Barry Callebaut’s Banbury factory produces chocolate and cocoa products for a number of high-profile companies and is the Group's UK headquarters and also home to its chocolate Academy.

Unite regional officer Chris Moon said: “This pay deal represents a fair and equitable increase to keep our members’ earnings in line with the cost-of-living crisis pressures they are facing. It also recognises the company’s strong performance following Covid and the loyalty of its workforce throughout that difficult period​.”