Tile Factory Boss 'drove car at workers' during Christmas Strike, says GMB union

GMB Union launches grievance against Marley Tiles after five workers suspended for taking part in lawful strike action

A tile firm boss drove his car at workers during a Christmas strike, says GMB Union. 

The same manager, of Marley Tiles, in Beenham, near Reading, then instructed a lorry driver to head straight for the picket line, workers say. 

The incidents were reported to the police - but instead of taking action against the manager, the company has suspended five long standing members of staff. 

The workers – dubbed the Marley Five – who have a combined 155 years at the company between them, have now launched a grievance, backed by the entire GMB membership.  

Workers took strike action in December after they were offered a 1% pay rise-despite the company making £16 million profit. [1]

The company has also been reported to the HSE for breaches to covid safety for workers.  During the strike, a number of workers were brought from a higher tier into Reading, allegedly in just one vehicle, breaking covid laws and road laws. 

Marley Ltd is a roof tile manufacturer employing around 60 staff, which supplies the UK’s leading Home Builders including Bovis Homes, Redrow, and Crest Nicholson. 

Nikki Dancey, GMB Regional Organiser said: “Marley’s treatment of the workforce has been nothing short of appalling and has led to a complete breakdown of trust with management.  

"Victimisation of workers for taking industrial action and defending themselves against serious and dangerous actions by management is a disgrace.  

“GMB will back the Marley Five to the hilt.    

“We hope that members of the public will support the campaign to get justice for these workers and return them safely to their jobs.” 

Media enquiries: GMB Press Office on 07958 156846 or at press.office@gmb.org.uk

Notes to Editors: [1] MARLEY LIMITED - Filing history (free information from Companies House) (company-information.service.gov.uk)