Diageo plays down Guinness shortage as strike planned for Belfast

Core Viewpoint - Workers at Diageo's Belfast production plant have voted to strike due to an "inadequate pay offer," but Diageo asserts that there will be no shortages of Guinness during the Christmas period [1][3]. Group 1: Strike Details - Approximately 90 workers are set to walk out for eight days starting December 5, in response to pay concerns [1]. - Unite claims that the Belfast facility is the world's largest producer of Guinness Zero, suggesting that the strike will significantly disrupt production [3]. - Diageo has stated that it has contingency plans to manage any potential impact on production and supply [3]. Group 2: Company Position - Diageo emphasizes that there will be no disruption to the supply of Guinness or Guinness 0.0 during the Christmas period [3]. - The company expressed disappointment over the strike ballot outcome but believes continued engagement is essential for a resolution [5]. - Diageo did not provide specific details regarding the negotiations or the demands from Unite [5]. Group 3: Union's Perspective - Unite's general secretary criticized Diageo for prioritizing profits over fair worker compensation, stating that the company can afford to make a decent pay offer [4]. - The union has not clarified its demands or whether further negotiations are planned before the strike [4]. - Regional officer Michael Keenan urged Diageo management to return to negotiations with a more acceptable pay offer [6].