Drivers warned of huge strike action announced next week impacting major car brands

The move announced by Unite union will see 200 workers, many of whom currently earn the national minimum wage, protest against what they consider unacceptably low pay rates.

Strike action will start on October 28 and continue until November 11, with the possibility of escalation if the dispute remains unresolved.

The strike action stems from a pay dispute between Gestamp and its workers. The current offer from Gestamp would only raise wages slightly above this level.

Adding to the workers' frustration is the disparity with Gestamp's sister site in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham. Starter rates at the North East sit are set to increase to £13.77 by January 2025.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham stated: "Our members at Gestamp at Llanelli will not be treated like second-class employees compared to their Newton Aycliffe colleagues.

“Gestamp is massively wealthy - it has absolutely no excuse to refuse these workers a fair deal."

The Llanelli factory is also a critical hot-pressing site for major metal components destined for several leading car manufacturers.

Unite regional officer Andrew Pearson criticised Gestamp's management, stating: "The bull-headed and contemptuous attitude of Gestamp's Llanelli's management towards its members will only serve to escalate this dispute."

He added: "Gestamp must explain to Nissan, JLR and its other clients that they are facing a shortage of components because it is disdainful of its staff and pays poverty rates."

The potential disruption to the supply chain highlights the interconnected nature of the automotive industry and the far-reaching consequences of localised industrial action.

Despite the looming strike action, there remains a possibility of averting industrial action. Unite has indicated that strikes can still be avoided if Gestamp tables an acceptable offer.

Graham emphasised Unite's commitment to its members, saying: "Unite defends our members' jobs, pay and conditions to the hilt and is backing Gestamp's Llanelli workforce all the way."

The union's stance underscores the seriousness of the situation and the potential consequences for both workers and the automotive industry.As negotiations continue, all eyes are on Gestamp to see if a resolution can be reached before the planned strike dates.

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The outcome of this dispute could have significant implications for labour relations in the UK's automotive sector, potentially setting a precedent for future wage negotiations.