Christmas crisp shortage fears as Hula Hoops and McCoy’s workers go on strike

The Billingham facility is a key site for KP Snacks, one of the UK’s largest savoury snack manufacturers.

Any disruption around the festive season, when demand typically increases, could affect deliveries to supermarkets, wholesalers and independent retailers.

According to the GMB, almost 50 members employed as process operatives participated in the ballot, with 85 per cent voting in favour of industrial action.

The union said employees have raised concerns that their responsibilities have expanded while pay has not kept pace.

Paul Clark, GMB organiser, said workers were being expected to undertake additional tasks without equivalent wage increases.

He said: "Yet they're being asked to take on extra duties for the same pay. If they've been asked to do extra work, they should get more pay".

The union previously rejected a proposed hourly increase of 77p in August, although at that time support for strike action fell short of the required threshold.

GMB representatives are expected to meet shortly to determine potential strike dates.

KP Snacks has paused holiday requests for employees at the site while it evaluates the implications of possible industrial action.

The GMB said it is seeking legal advice on whether the suspension of leave complies with employment law.

Mr Clark said the timing of the dispute could have national implications for retailers preparing for the festive period.

He said: "These are skilled workers who keep production running and supermarket shelves stocked.

"Unless they want to see the shelves empty this Christmas, it's time to get back round the table and sort this out".

He described the dispute as a critical moment for negotiations and said union members expect recognition for the work required to maintain production levels.

KP Snacks said it was disappointed by the ballot outcome, noting that it involves a small portion of the workforce at the Teesside facility.

The company said contingency arrangements were being put in place to limit supply disruption.

A spokesperson said: "We value the Teesside team and the important role they play in producing our products and remain committed to constructive dialogue to find a resolution".

The firm did not comment on allegations regarding additional duties or its decision to halt holiday approvals.

The prospect of strike action comes as manufacturers across the UK report increased tensions over pay, workloads and staff retention.

Many businesses have faced pressure to maintain output while responding to cost-of-living concerns among employees.

The GMB has said the situation raises broader questions about expectations placed on staff in the food manufacturing sector.

The union argues that, without agreement on pay linked to expanded responsibilities, production reliability could be affected.

Festive snack sales represent an important segment of annual turnover for retailers, with households traditionally buying larger volumes of crisps and savoury items in the lead-up to Christmas.

Industry observers note that manufacturing slowdowns during this period can place pressure on distribution networks.

Union officials said they remain open to further discussions with KP Snacks, while the company said it intends to continue engaging with employees and the GMB to reach an agreement.

KP Snacks have been contacted for further comment.

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