Diageo workers plan strikes at Cameronbridge distillery

More than 100 workers at Diageo’s Cameronbridge distillery in Scotland are planning a series of strikes starting September 28. The industrial action, which is expected to last until October 15, threatens to bring production at Europe’s largest grain distillery to a standstill.

The dispute centers on job cuts at the facility. While Diageo states the measures are necessary due to lower operating rhythms and aims to redirect investment, the Unite union argues there is “no justification” for reducing staff while the company remains highly profitable. The union has raised concerns regarding worker safety if staff numbers are reduced without a corresponding decrease in production volume.

The strike involves various roles, including distillation controllers, technicians, and engineers. The disruption could impact the supply of major brands such as Johnnie Walker, Bell’s, and Haig. This labor unrest comes as Diageo CEO Dave Lewis pursues a cost-cutting strategy aimed at saving $1 billion, following a reduction of nearly 2,000 employees across the company over the past year.