The UK could face a sausage shortage after workers at a major food manufacturer began strike action.
Staff at Pilgrims Europe’s production plant in Enniskillen walked out at 6:30am on September 2 amid an ongoing wage dispute.
The industrial action threatens to disrupt supplies of sausages and related products from several well-known British brands, including Fridge Raiders, Richmond Sausages, and Mr Brains Pork Faggots.
The industrial action centres on demands for increased remuneration and extended break entitlements.
Currently, only those on morning shifts receive fully compensated breaks.
Workers earning the lowest hourly rate of £12.82 receive just 11 pence above the statutory minimum, despite the company reporting after-tax profits of £128 million.
The Enniskillen facility manufactures a diverse range of products for multiple UK and Irish food brands.
Beyond the affected sausage varieties, the site also produces vegan sausage options.
Major retailers including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Morrisons stock the affected brands.
Unite’s Sharon Graham stated that Pilgrims generates substantial profits while its workforce receives minimal compensation above the legal baseline.
She noted that the company possesses the financial capacity to improve conditions for its employees.
Unite regional officer Greg O’Kane said management’s stance had compelled workers to intensify industrial action.
Production and inventory levels have already suffered significant disruption.
He indicated that swift intervention from Pilgrims’ management was necessary to resolve the disagreement and prevent potential product availability issues as educational establishments reopen and consumer demand increases.