Ryan FowlerWorkers at frozen food storage operator Magnavale Easton have begun a two-week strike, raising concerns about disruption to turkey supplies during the peak Christmas period.
The Lincolnshire facility, which employs nearly 100 staff, is one of the UK’s largest storage centres for frozen turkey products.
GMB members walked out today after rejecting what the union described as a 0% pay offer. The site stores produce for a number of major customers, including the Bernard Matthews brand and the 2 Sisters Food Group, prompting industry fears about the potential impact on operations and festive poultry availability.
The strike is set to continue until Sunday 14th December, covering one of the busiest periods for frozen storage and distribution as retailers prepare for Christmas demand. The union said the action reflects growing frustration among staff over wages failing to keep pace with household costs.
Andy Groves, GMB organiser, said: “These workers aren’t asking for the world, just a pay packet that covers the bills this Christmas. Instead, they’ve been offered a less-than-plump 0%; a total insult to hard working members of staff. This site is one of the UK’s frozen turkey capitals, serving up meaty yuletide treats to families across the Midlands. Company top brass need to get back around the table with a serious offer, and quick.”
Magnavale Easton has not commented publicly. Industry observers say any prolonged disruption risks adding pressure to Christmas poultry logistics, although the scale of any impact will depend on alternative storage capacity and contingency plans within the supply chain.
