Royal Mail PLC (LSE:RMG) is facing a strike over pay from more than 115,000 of its workers, which could be the largest walkout in a summer of industrial action in Britain.
Announcing the results of a ballot of its members, the Communication Workers Union said 97.6% voted for strike action, based on a 77% ballot turnout.
The workers “will not budge” until they receive a “dignified, proper pay rise”, the CWU said, with workers objecting to a 2% pay rise offer that represents a cut in real terms with consumer price inflation above 8% and expected to top 11% in the autumn.
Royal Mail managers have already voted to go on strike earlier this month, with trade union Unite's members due to walk out from Wednesday 20 July until the Friday of that week.
CWU general secretary Dave Ward said the result of the ballot was “a vote of no confidence in Royal Mail’s CEO and board, who should seriously consider their futures in our industry.
“Crucially, the vote can leave no doubt that postal workers are united, and that they are demanding the proper pay rise they deserve.
“While bosses rake in £758mln in profit and shareholders take £400mln, workers are expected to take a serious real-terms pay cut."
He added: “The CWU’s message to Royal Mail’s leadership is loud and clear – not a single postal worker in this country will budge until you get serious and give them a dignified, proper pay rise.”