Strikes by tanker drivers supplying forecourts and aviation fuel across the North West and Scottish borders have been called off after Unite, the UK’s leading union, secured an improved pay deal.

The Stanlow oil refinery-based drivers, who work for Hoyer, which has recently rebranded as Oxalis, voted to accept the deal after postponing their strike action last week. All scheduled industrial action has now been called off.  

As part of the deal, the workers will receive a £2.02 an hour increase backdated to May 2023, as well as a £1 an hour fuel efficiency payment also backdated to May 2023. In addition, pay will increase by £1.99 an hour for 2024, backdated to February this year.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Congratulations to Oxalis’ Stanlow tanker drivers, who stood together for better pay and won. This is yet another example of how Unite’s unrelenting focus on improving jobs, pay and conditions is boosting our members’ incomes.”

Unite regional officer Paul Lomax said: “This pay win could not have been secured without the hard work and solidarity of our members. Those looking for a better deal at work should join Unite and get their colleagues to join too.”