Uniq supplies Marks & Spencer with food products

About 500 employees at the Uniq Prepared Foods Plant in Annan have been awarded a 5% pay rise, according to the Transport and General Workers' Union.

The walkout has been suspended, until a vote on the deal by members.

The T&G union had earlier backed a series of one-day stoppages every Thursday from 19 August.

'Minimum wage'

Formerly known as Pinney's of Scotland, Uniq - which also has a factory at Finnarts Bay - is one of the largest suppliers of smoked salmon and other fish products.

The company provides goods for major retailers including Marks & Spencer and employs 1,000 people.

T&G regional industrial organiser Mick Higgins said many workers at Uniq were earning only the minimum wage.

He added that an offer of �5 per hour - a 9% rise - had been agreed for the lowest-paid workers.

Mr Higgins said: "Increases of between 5% and 9% will be implemented for all workers and shows a commitment on the part of the company to come up with the money to tackle low pay."

He said that Uniq had initially offered a 3% inflation-only rise, which was rejected by union members.