Staff at digger-maker JCB have voted to accept plans to introduce a new flexible working pattern for shop floor workers.
Employees at JCB's 海角视频 factories were asked to vote on the temporary arrangements which include a 'banking' system for hours, earlier starts and later finishes as well as staff being guaranteed 39 hours' basic contractual pay in any one week.
Now the GMB Union has confirmed that staff have voted in favour of the plans in a move which will save save more than 900 jobs amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The ballot, which was conducted today at the JCB Cabs Factory in Uttoxeter, was overseen by independent representatives and will be followed by further discussions between GMB senior representatives and JCB management.
JCB CEO Graeme Macdonald said: "I applaud the decision of employees for voting in favour of a new temporary collective agreement in the GMB ballot.
"It is a step in the right direction as we work together to navigate a way through the severe disruption the business is facing as a result of the Covid-19 crisis."
Stuart Harrison, GMB Organiser said: "Our members have saved more than 900 jobs by voting to accept the new flexible working proposal.
"Now is when the hard work starts, we’ll be working with JCB to ensure this new agreement is implemented equally and fairly across all JCB sites.
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"Thanks to all GMB Members who took part and the senior reps who have been a credit to the union with their hard work and diligence."
The new working arrangements are expected to be reviewed no later than New Year's Eve where they could be extended for a further period.