Simplot management has baulked at workers’ pay demands for a CPI increase plus one per cent, instead seeking a wage freeze.

But Australian Manufacturing Workers Union secretary Tim Ayres said strong financial results for Simplot – a combination of consumers showing a preference for Australian-made food and productivity improvements by workers – meant the company was well-placed to meet the demand.

Mr Ayres said it was reported recently that Simplot’s net profits almost doubled in the last year, to $46 million.

“Simplot’s profits have increased because Australians are doing their bit to support and buy Australian-made food,” Mr Ayres said.

“But in return I think the Australian public would want CEO Terry O’Brien to support Australian jobs. 

“Mr O’Brien has admitted publicly that the company is getting a leg-up from Australian supermarket giants Coles and Woolworths.

“This is not a company that’s in trouble – in fact, it’s turning a huge profit.”

Mr Ayres said AMWU workers at Simplot plants were seeking to retain existing conditions, plus a pay increase in line with cost of living pressures for regional families. 

An Industrial Action Postal Ballot shows workers are willing to fight for their demands.

More than 70 per cent of the 562 members voted in the ballot, which asked whether or not they supported industrial action and, of these, more than 80 per cent approved taking some form of industrial action.

Union members on the site will meet in coming days to decide what action they will take.