WORKERS at a pallet supplier in Trafford Park are to return to work for the first time in more than 20 weeks after an agreement with bosses on salaries.

Members of Unite at CHEP UK this week agreed to a with inflation pay rise worth an average £2,500 per worker, plus a £1,000 lump sum per worker and three extra days of annual leave in 2022.

The agreement is the answer to the cost of living crisis the workers wanted when the picket line was established on Village Way in December of last year.

They can now return to work after more than 20 weeks, the longest strike in the history of Unite.

Sharon Graham, the union's general secretary said: "I’m proud of Unite’s reps and members at CHEP UK. This was a tough dispute but the workers stood their ground and won an excellent deal.

"The workers knew the company could afford a fair wage so they kept up the fight and they won. This victory is proof Unite is dedicated to improving the pay, terms and conditions of its members.

And regional officer Ian McCluskey added: "CHEP UK has finally listened and acted. Thanks to the bravery of the workers at Trafford Park the company has delivered a pay deal to recognise the workers’ contribution through the pandemic and address the cost of living crisis.

"The workers can now get back to work with their heads held high."

According to Unite, CHEP UK also agreed to address concerns about excessive sanctions on workers, as well as pay parity with the company's other sites.

The pallet supplier, whose clients include DHL, Heineken, Heinz, Procter and Gamble, Two Sisters and Unilever, has a number of sites across the country.

Kate Green, the MP for the area who was seen on the picket line on more than one occasion, tweeted: "Well done to the determined CHEP UK workers at the Trafford Park site on a deserved victory after months on strike."

"So proud of you all."