Hormel Foods faces dire turkey market decline and production chaos

In the United Kingdom, specifically in the West Midlands, the Unite Union announced that around 40 delivery drivers employed by Culina will go on strike on December 19 and 20, 2024. This strike is planned for the crucial period just before Christmas, a time when supermarkets, including Tesco and Marks & Spencer, typically receive their fresh turkey deliveries. The strike is the result of the company’s refusal to provide any pay rise for its drivers this year, prompting the union to warn of potential turkey shortages during the festive season. Culina, a logistics firm contracted by Avara Foods Hereford for delivering chicken and turkey, is being criticized for its lack of action regarding employee compensation. Unite Union representatives pointed out that the drivers play a vital role in ensuring the timely delivery of food products. They expressed disappointment at what they termed 'Scrooge-like behavior' from the employer, highlighting the disparity between the drivers' essential work and their treatment by the company. Additional strike dates may be announced if Culina does not increase its pay offer following the initial protest days. The Unite Union's general secretary, Sharon Graham, emphasized the need for fair compensation for the drivers, calling the strike a significant protest that they fully support. This labor action not only threatens the availability of turkeys for Christmas celebrations but also reflects ongoing issues in labor relations within the logistics and transport sectors in the region. Public transportation in Greater Manchester is also facing disruption from separate imminent strike actions by bus workers over similar pay disputes, indicating a larger trend of unrest among workers seeking better compensation in various sectors. The overall impact of these strikes could lead to empty holiday tables and increased frustration among consumers during a high-demand season.