WSP Textiles Workers Secure 6.1% Pay Rise Following Strike Action
Workers at WSP Textiles in Stroud and Dursley, Gloucestershire, have secured a new pay deal worth 6.1% over two years following a series of strikes. The agreement brings an end to a dispute over wages, with employees previously rejecting a 2.35% pay rise offer.
Background to the Dispute
More than 50 members of the Unite union, who manufacture cloth coatings for snooker tables and tennis balls, began nine days of strike action in January 2026 . The union argued that the initial 2.35% offer was insufficient given the current cost of living crisis and highlighted a disparity between production line staff earnings (under £13 an hour) and the company’s highest-paid director (earning around £100,000 a year) , .
Terms of the New Agreement
After negotiations, a revised offer was accepted by the workers, comprising a 3.1% pay increase backdated to May 2025, and a further 3% increase from May 2026 . In addition to the pay increases, the agreement includes:
- An additional half day of annual leave
- A 1% increase in employer’s pension contributions
- One additional workplace representative for Unite
- Commitment to talks over a potential bonus scheme
Company and Union Response
Duncan Kettell, Chief Executive of WSP Textiles, expressed his delight at reaching an agreement, noting it was the first strike in the company’s history , . He stated the deal ensures WSP Textiles remains competitive on the global stage .
Michael Hobbs, Unite regional officer, welcomed the outcome, stating that members hadn’t received a decent pay rise in years and that the increase was well-deserved . He also highlighted the importance of the agreement for future negotiations.
Impact on Production
WSP Textiles has confirmed that work is now “returning to normal” following the employees’ vote in favor of the new deal . The company produces materials essential for professional sports, including snooker table baize and tennis ball felt.