SHOPPERS have been warned there will be “substantial” shortages of a classic summer drink from TODAY.
Brits were devastated to learn they could find empty wine shelves in supermarkets up and down the country.
Bottles have disappeared rapidly after a popular wine supplier announced its workers are going on strike.
Staff at Encirc, a Bristol based warehouse that holds 18 of the most drank wine brands in the UK, kicked off the 16-day walk out today.
Around 2000 employees at the site, in Avonmouth, revealed they will carry out the industrial action from June 19 to July 5.
Unit members are going on strike over a pay dispute, as reported by the Express, after already being offered a 3.2 per cent wage increase.
A union spokesperson claimed workers are not paid properly despite the “very profitable company” Encirc turning over £600million.
It will see key figures in bottling, packaging and distribution, walk out on different dates – as well as a 12 week overtime ban.
Experts have claimed the strike could see a “significant” shortage of wines at UK supermarkets.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Encirc’s meanness to its workers is all about greed and not need.
“This is a very lucrative company that can fully afford to pay its workers properly but it is choosing not to.
“Unite will not stand idly by and allow Encric to steal our members hard won rights.
“Encirc workers deserve better and they have Unite’s full support throughout this dispute.”
Unite regional officer John Sweeney added: “There is no doubt that this action will hit supermarket shelves.
“While shortages may be frustrating for customers looking to enjoy a bottle of wine this summer, the situation is entirely of Encirc’s own making.
“Management has constantly refused to engage meaningfully. Encirc needs to return to the negotiating table with a vastly improved offer.”
Encirc said it is “open to dialogue with the union in good faith.”
This comes as beer fans are going bananas over this summer beverage accessory that has been branded a “great product.”
The product is currently on sale for nearly half the price and can arrive at your home in time for the weekend.
And, Sun reporter Helen Nicklin has tested a range of supermarket summer cocktails in a can.
The winner was a Pimm’s mix – which was £10 cheaper than the new Aperol Spritz.
Shoppers can now pick up the 200ml bottles in packs of four at specific supermarkets – taking all the hassle out of cocktail making.
And it is not the only big-name tipple that has been canned for your convenience.
Here, drinks expert Helena sips and scores a selection of pre-mixed cocktails.
Plus, Morrisons shoppers have raised a glass this week as the industry giant rolls out brand-new cocktails for just £1.50 per drink – and they’re perfect for summer BBQs.
The budget-friendly booze is part of an exclusive tie-up with premium cocktail brand The Drinks Bureau, bringing a taste of the bar straight to your garden party.
Available now in over 280 Morrisons stores across the UK, the 1.5-litre cocktail boxes are priced at £15 each – or just £12 with a More Card.
That works out at as little as £1.20 per serving, offering premium drinks at pocket-friendly prices.
Each box contains ten ready-to-drink servings and includes a tap-style spout for easy pouring, making it an ideal option for hassle-free entertaining.
It’s also the first time shoppers can get premium “on tap” cocktails from a UK supermarket – a format that’s proven popular in bars and pubs.
How to save money buying alcohol
Alcohol can be pricey if you’re planning a party or hosting an event but there are ways to cut costs.
It’s always important to drink responsibly, here, Sun Savers Editor Lana Clements share some tips on getting booze for the best price.
Stocking up can mean big savings on drinks, especially if you want to buy wine or fizz.
The big supermarkets regularly offer discounts of 25% when you buy six or more bottles of wine. The promotions typically run in the lead up to occasions such as Bank Holidays, Christmas and Easter.
If you know you are going to need booze later in the year, it can be worth acting when you see offers.
Before buying your preferred drink make sure you shop around to find the best price – you can use a comparison site such as pricerunner.com or trolley.co.uk.
Don’t forget that loyalty cards can unlock better savings so make sure you factor that in too.
If you like your plonk, wine clubs can also be a good way to save money and try new varieties. You’ll usually have to pay a membership fee in return for cheaper price so work out if you will be buying enough to make the one off cost worthwhile.
