JCB workers vote on shorter work hours

Posted on 2 Dec 2015 by Fred Tongue

Employees at JCB have voted for shorter working hours in order to save jobs in the manufacturing firm.

Due to “rapid deterioration” in world demand for construction equipment, the firm had warned that it might have to make 290 redundancies. The number was then lowered to 235 the consultation with the GMB union.

Until the end of February is when the flexible working pattern will run to and will save more than 100 jobs in the company. These flexible working patterns will be in affect at JCB’s head office in Rocester as well as sites in Uttoxeter, Rugely and Wrexham.

JCB chief executive Graeme Macdonald said: “Our shop floor colleagues are to be applauded for their actions. JCB and the GMB were determined to do everything possible to avoid compulsory redundancies through a combination of voluntary redundancies, early retirements and flexible working.

“It highlights a great team spirit at JCB and also means we can retain some vitally important skills.”

GMB works convenor Gordon Richardson said: “Our members are to be congratulated. It’s a magnanimous act which is in the spirit of the approaching festive season and means that over 100 people who were under threat of compulsory redundancy will now have a much happier Christmas.”