Autologic Backs Down on Unite de-recognition

Autologic, one of the UK's main car delivery companies, has been forced to back down in its battle with Unite over de-recognition.

In a return to the 1980s when workers faced de-recognition by signing individual contracts of employment, the Northampton-based firm wrote to its 280 drivers, warning them that they could lose their jobs unless the union was derecognised.

Unite members refused to sign the contracts even though they were offered £2000 each to sign up.

Autologic, is headed by "tough new chief executive Avril Palmer-Baunack" (as the Daily Mail described her).

The vast majority of Unite drivers refused to take the money.

A joint statement has now been issued saying: 'Both parties are pleased to confirm that there is full agreement between Unite and Autologic to work together for the long-term benefit of the company and its employees. Additionally, Autologic would like to make it clear that it is not seeking union derecognition.'

It is understood that the two letters to the workers have been withdrawn.

According to the union bashing Daily Mail: "The speed at which the company backed down from its previous anti-union stance is remarkable. The threat of legal and industrial action and an acknowledgment that the letter was inflammatory is understood to have forced a change in attitude.

The first letter said: 'Autologic can offer you good pay, good conditions and a good future. The trade union can offer you tea and biscuits when you've lost your job.'

The letter concluded: 'Think long and hard about about the lack of jobs available outside if you decide against derecognition.

'Think long and hard about how you will continue caring and looking after your families and your dependants with no job.'

By midweek the tone had changed dramatically. 'In return for signing their employment contract each driver has been offered payment of £2,000 in consideration of any perceived change,' the second letter said.

'The management believe that they are working in the best interest of all - let's not forget we are all employees and the financial future of the company affects everyone.'

And by Friday the mood had softened further and the company was looking for a peaceful solution".

A company source said: 'It looks like a sensible compromise is going to be agreed. The situation has moved forwards substantially. There is recognition that the status quo had to change and I think that both sides will give a little.


To see the letter containing the £2,000 offer, go to thisismoney.co.uk/autologic.