Stagecoach makes huge profits as Sunderland’s drivers struggle
Sunderland’s bus strikes are set to continue after drivers turned down a below inflation pay deal.
The new strike dates are December 23, 24, 26 and 27.
An overwhelming majority of GMB members working for Stagecoach Sunderland rejected the deal, which amounted to a real terms pay cut.
Stagecoach's regional bus services made an operating profit of £58 million in the financial year 2021/22 - more than double the year before. [1]
Almost 200 Sunderland bus drivers have taken several days of strike action already in anger over ‘poverty pay’.
Stuart Gilhespy, GMB Organiser, said:
"Sunderland’s bus drivers are clear – they are struggling in the cost of living crisis and deserve a decent pay offer from Stagecoach.
“Stagecoach's latest offer didn't match what drivers wanted - and Stagecoach knew this. They have failed to listen to their employees needs and instead choose to focus on their own profits.
"Sunderland’s drivers have seen workers in Stagecoach depots across the country receive double digit pay rises - they want and deserve the same.
"These workers are standing up to bullying tactics from Stagecoach and striving to achieving a result that is good for them, their families and the local economy.
"The people of Sunderland deserve more than what these multinational companies are paying. Please stand with your local bus drivers as more than ever they need your support."
