Approximately 300 DHL supply chain workers at Jaguar Land Rover’s Solihull plant have voted to launch an indefinite strike, escalating tensions in a long-running dispute over pay and working conditions. The Unite union confirmed the industrial action would begin within weeks unless last-minute negotiations produce a breakthrough.
The logistics staff, who handle parts delivery for JLR’s production lines, rejected a 5% pay offer from DHL earlier this month. Union representatives argue the proposed increase fails to match inflation projections and comes after three years of real-terms pay cuts. ‘Our members keep this plant running but are treated as second-class workers,’ said a Unite official speaking anonymously about ongoing talks.
Industry analysts note the strike could disrupt production at Britain’s largest automotive manufacturing complex, which builds the Range Rover and Defender models. JLR reported record revenues last quarter but faces supply chain pressures. A plant spokesperson stated they are ‘monitoring the situation closely’ but declined to comment on contingency plans.
The dispute reflects wider labor unrest across UK logistics sectors, where unions have secured double-digit pay increases at other firms. Employment law experts suggest DHL may face pressure to improve its offer given tight labor markets. However, company insiders claim the contract’s profitability margins limit flexibility.