‘We won this’

McDonald’s workers who went on strike for the first time in the firm’s UK history celebrated last Thursday (January 4) after winning their biggest pay rise in more than a decade.

The victory followed strike action, which was supported by Unite Community members, (pictured) by McDonald’s staff at two restaurants last September.

In an unprecedented move, Bakers, Food and Allied Workers Union (BFAWU) members from McDonald’s branches in Crayford and Cambridge staged a 24-hour walk out over pay and conditions.

The strike met with support from Unite and the wider labour movement and was backed by the Labour Party.

BFAWU national president Ian Hodson said the pay rise was an “amazing achievement” by staff who had forced McDonald’s bosses to “sit up and take notice”.

Head of Unite Community Liane Groves congratulated the workers and said their victory was an example of the benefits joining a trade union and taking action could bring.

‘Extremely proud’

She said, “McDonald’s workers who went on strike should be extremely proud. By standing up for their rights they have not only benefited themselves but their co-workers across the country.

“McDonald’s BFAWU members have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Unite Community during our Sports Direct campaign, just as Unite Community members have with striking McDonald’s workers.

“It goes to show that standing together in solidarity and taking action against low pay and unfair working practises can produce real change.”

The pay rise, which only covers workers at company-owned eateries, comes into effect on January 22 and is banded by age, role and region.

One employee, who wished to remain anonymous, told the Mirror, “We won this. Biggest pay rise for 10 years! If 0.001 per cent going on strike can win this imagine what more can do!

“Pay will be raised, with some crew over 25 even getting £10 an hour.

“Everyone’s pay has gone up. It’s not loads, but it’s a win. My pay was around ÂŁ7.45 and now it will be ÂŁ7.95. It’s the biggest raise in 10 years.”