BEAR Scotland workers secure 7.25% pay rise and union recognition

Unite the union said the agreement follows weeks of unrest after the workforce voted in favour of strike action. The dispute centred on pay rates that workers argued lagged behind industry standards.

Under the new deal, the lowest hourly pay band will rise from £12 to £12.75, while the top grade will increase from £13.25 to £14.25 per hour. The union also secured faster progression through pay grades, allowing staff to reach higher earnings more quickly.

Unite the union described the outcome as a “historic” breakthrough, securing both better pay and recognition rights with the company for the first time.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Unite’s members working for BEAR Scotland in Inverness took a brave stand by being prepared to strike if necessary. Their determination has delivered not only a good pay deal but also union recognition. It’s a great example of Unite backing our members all the way to achieve better jobs, pay and conditions.”

Unite industrial officer Marc Jackson added: “We are delighted to have successfully negotiated an improved wage offer which was overwhelmingly backed by our members. The company’s voluntary recognition of Unite will provide a route to securing better pay, working hours and holidays in future.”

A Bear Scotland spokesperson said: “We are pleased that the small number of colleagues in our Inverness depot who raised concerns have accepted our proposal and that there will be no industrial action.

“As we previously stated, we believe that the pay increase implemented in April 2025 is fair and competitive and this has been agreed with the union, in addition to the ongoing further refinements of benefits. We continually review our pay and benefits package to ensure our employees are recognised for the valuable contribution they make.

“We look forward to working constructively with the union and our internal joint consultative committee, which represents all of our employees, going forward.”