Tracy Brabin, MP for Batley & Spen along with Rachel Dix, full-time official with the GMB, visited one of the most significant employers in the area this week for a tour of the factory and warehouse and to meet with workers at Birstall based PPG.
PPG is one of the UK's leading paint manufacturers and is recognised as a fair and reputable employer who takes a keen interest in the communities it operates in with a high priority being given to ethical working practices.
Tracy Brabin, MP said: “PPG are a global company working in the heart of Birstall and I was lucky to spend half a day going round the factory with senior staff and GMB official Rachel Dix. Talking to staff, many of whom have been there for decades – always a good sign - I could see PPG is a fine employer investing in staff wellbeing and personal development.”
“I was heartened to see many women on the factory floor as well as in management and I know the company is committed to representing our diverse community at every level.”
“Outside of the factory it is clear PPG are committed to their role alongside our community. The local work undertaken by PPG – headed up by the irrepressible Veronica Horsfall – is exemplary and we all benefit from the company’s approach to community involvement.”
“Over the summer they donated paint to Batley & Spen Youth Theatre’s production of Les Miserable, with Veronica commenting that it was easy as the designer just wanted ‘dowdy’ and only last month I was very lucky to open Field Head School’s new playground with the Mayor, as part of PPG’s Colourful Communities project. The scheme involved members of PPG staff painting benches, murals, furniture and playground markings making a positive, colourful and up-beat impact on the day to day life of children and teachers.”
"Whilst there are considerable concerns as to how Brexit may impact the business and some of the valued staff, I feel reassured they’re a company committed to Batley & Spen and here for the long-term."
“The working relationship between GMB and PPG is incredibly heartening, particularly the joint focus on health and safety and seeking to create the best possible working environment for employees. I look forward to being part of this continuing unity.”
GMB’s Rachel Dix, said: “We have a good relationship with the company. PPG is a sound employer who provide much needed jobs in this area. We do have differences from time to time but we work together to resolve problems, driven by a shared vision of the company's success. PPG is going from strength to strength, is integral to our members’ job security and living standards and to the prosperity of the local community - we are committed to that end to contribute where we can as a union to PPG's achievements.”
Ends –
For further comment contact Rachel Dix on 07958-156839 or GMB on 0345 337 7777, or Tracy Brabin, MP on 01924 900036
