Princess Yachts staff in Plymouth win major deal after union talks

It is understood that nearly 1,200 Princess Yachts workers will receive a 6.5 per cent pay rise following negotiations with the company.

Employees at the Plymouth boatbuilder had voted in favour of strike action after being told their wages would remain the same during pay talks.

Following the ballot, Princess Yachts put forward a 6.5 per cent offer from September, which staff accepted.

The rise is expected to mean those on the lowest pay grades will see their annual earnings increase by between £2,000 and £3,000.

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Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “This is a huge victory for the Princess Yachts workers, who by sticking together in their union and voting for strike action forced the company back to the table.”

No strike action took place or was scheduled after the revised offer was made.

Unite regional officer Mark Richards said: “This deal could not have been achieved without the hard work and dedication of Unite’s workplace representatives.”

Princess Yachts is one of Plymouth’s largest private sector employers and is known to draw staff from across the city and surrounding areas, including southern Dartmoor communities.

Princess Yachts has been approached by The Moorlander for comment.