McDonald's UK workers to strike for the first time

McDonald’s is witnessing its first UK strike since the franchise opened in 1974.

Protests by unions and the public are fuelled by concerns over low wages and the use of zero-hour contracts. Around 40 staff will strike today, at two restaurants in Cambridge and Crayford, south-east London, after a ballot in favour of industrial action – The Guardian reports.

Recently, Executive Grapevine spoke to the CEO of McDonald's UK, Paul Pomroy, who says workers have the option of moving to fixed hours. He told us that throughout a trial of both fixed hour and zero-hour contracts, the majority of participants (around 80%) chose to stay on their existing flexible contracts; with around 20% opting for fixed hours.

However, the Bakers, Food and Allied Workers Union (BFAWU), said staff were demanding a wage of at least £10 an hour, more secure working hours and union recognition.