Human resources at a click

McDonald’s workers take part in first UK strike

buildings-night-sky-lightning-black-clouds

Last week McDonald’s was hit by its first strike since first opening its doors in the UK in 1974. Workers took to the picket line amid concerns over low wages and the use of zero-hours contracts.

Workers at two branches in Cambridge and Crayford began the 24-hour strike action last week before heading to a rally in Westminster.

The staff are calling for pay to be increased to £10 per hour, up from the minimum wage of £7.50 for staff aged 25 and above. The Bakers, Food and Allied Workers Union (BFAWU), one of Britain’s oldest trade unions, said staff also demanded more secure working hours and union recognition.

Workers at two branches in Cambridge and Crayford began the 24-hour strike action last week before heading to a rally in Westminster.

McDonald’s announced back in April that workers would be offered a choice of flexible or fixed contracts with minimum guaranteed hours, adding 86 % of workers have chosen to stay on flexible contracts. In response to the strike, the fast-food giant explained that those taking industrial action represented 0.01% of its workforce and that the dispute was in relation to its internal grievance procedures.

We will keep you updated on any further developments.

Clarkslegal’s employment lawyers are here to help. For further information or if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our employment lawyers.

Disclaimer This information is for guidance purposes only and should not be regarded as a substitute for taking professional and legal advice. Please refer to the full General Notices on our website.
Louise_Keenan
Louise Keenan
Associate

Related Articles

Substantial union-related changes under the Employment Rights Act 2025 will take effect on 18 February 2026, ushering in significant shifts...

The new trade union rights introduced by the Employment Rights Act 2025 will come into force on 18 February 2026....

Monica Atwal outlines the changes employers need to be aware of following the government’s repeal of the Strikes Act. On...

Related Resources

Letter to employees who made IC request where over 40 percent support that request

Template letter to employees who made IC requests. Preview of letter Letter to employees who made IC request where over...

Letter to employees involved in industrial action for over 12 weeks and employer is considering dismissal

Template letter explaining potential dismissal to employees who have been involved in industrial action for more than 12 weeks. Preview...

Responding to an IC request where request already made in the last 3 years

Template letter responding to an IC request where request already made in the last 3 years. Preview of letter...

Human resources at a click