Australia faces the looming prospect of a shortage in one of its beloved iced coffee brands, Dare, as a strike at Bega's Penrith factory in Sydney's western region continues, stirring frustration among tradespeople.
Scores of employees at the Bega Cheese and Milk conglomerate's Penrith facility have initiated strike action this week, demanding an increase in their wages.
This strike action affects the production of both Dare iced coffee and Dairy Farmers milk.
The workers at this site have requested a salary hike of seven percent in the initial year and an additional five percent in the subsequent years to address the escalating cost of living crisis.
Their decision to go on strike came after Bega offered a more modest increase of four percent in the first year and 3.75 percent in the following years.
The United Workers Union (UWU) has raised concerns that the strike may disrupt Dare iced coffee production and result in angered tradespeople.
Bega is known for producing products like Dare iced coffee and Bega cheese, with approximately 100 employees at the Penrith site.
The UWU has accused the dairy giant of offering inadequate compensation to its workers and has labelled it as "lowballing" their demands. In response, Bega increased its pay offer to four percent in the first year and 3.75 percent in subsequent years.
The UWU voiced its perspective on Facebook, stating, "All Bega workers want is a fair pay rise that respects the billion-dollar profits they've made possible.
These factory workers ensured a consistent milk supply during the pandemic. They also accepted reduced pay during COVID-19 to support the company through uncertain times. Now, they are seeking a fair deal that recognizes their contributions."
The Secretary of the UWU, Mr. Smith, emphasized the gravity of the situation, saying, "Workers in Penrith do not take strike action lightly.
They will be missing out on hundreds of dollars while on strike. However, we need Bega to understand that below-inflation pay raises are insufficient when our members are grappling with doubled housing costs and a threefold increase in essential expenses.
UWU members are resolute in continuing their strike action unless Bega puts forth a more acceptable wage proposal. We want these tradespeople to know that the ball is in Bega's court."
