Coca-Cola production hit by bottling plant strike

Unite said the stoppage at the plant in Edmonton, north London, will lead to millions fewer bottles of Coke being produced this month.

The union warned that the dispute could escalate unless the company increases a two per cent pay offer.

Unite said workers will strike from 3pm, claiming there will be no production until 9pm.

National officer Jennie Formby said: "Frustrated workers are turning off the taps at this Coca-Cola bottling plant. They deserve a pay deal that reflects the true cost of living. With pre-tax profits up by 12 per cent to 617.9m in 2009 and projections of better than expected results this year, the company can easily afford a fairer deal.

"We are very concerned by the lack of commitment from Coca-Cola Enterprises to reaching a deal on this issue and the refusal to consider a compromise at Acas last week, instead choosing to reissue the previous proposal. Unless the company engages more positively with Unite, workers will become even more frustrated and we could well see an escalation of this dispute."

Further strikes are planned for later in the month.