WORKERS who fill and maintain cash machines are threatening to strike over an “insulting” refusal to increase their pay by G4S Cash Services, their union said today.

GMB, which tabled a 7.5 per cent pay claim on behalf of its 1,400 members, said that action could paralyse “cash in transit” services, leaving cash points empty and travellers unable to obtain foreign currency.

The union has given the company, now owned by Allied Universal, notice of a ballot which could see members walk out at a time when labour is in great demand across the industry.

GMB national officer Nadine Houghton described the 0 per cent offer as “a massive kick in the teeth” to members who had accepted real-terms pay cuts when the industry was hit by Covid-19 and a reduction in the use of cash.

She said: “But now they’ve had enough. Their labour is in demand and most of them could get a better-paid job tomorrow.  

“Despite this — and a significant risk of being attacked while doing their job — many are loyal and want to stay, but only if they are paid what they are worth.  

“We now have no choice but to hold a ballot for industrial action. Our members know their value.”

A G4S spokesperson said:  “We are continuing to actively negotiate in good faith with the GMB and its members and are seeking to reach an amicable agreement without the need for industrial action.

“In the event of a GMB strike, we have contingency plans in place which would ensure that cash services — including ATMs — would be maintained across the country.”