Nature staff hold unprecedented vote on industrial action | National Union of Journalists

In an unprecedented move, UK staff working on the renowned Nature portfolio of science journals are balloting for industrial action in a dispute over pay. 

The portfolio, which includes the world’s leading science magazine Nature, is owned by international publisher Springer Nature.

 Talks between the union and publisher broke down in April following negotiations via ACAS.  The UK staff - which includes nearly 400 academic editors, journalists, art editors and production staff - have rejected an offer of 5.8% from the company.

In its most recent annual report (for 2022), Springer Nature posted an operating profit of €487 million (around £410 million) on revenues of more than €1.8 billion (around £1.6 billion). 

The ballot opens today and the union is encouraging journalists to vote yes in response to questions on taking strike action and action short of a strike, demonstrating strong opposition to the company’s final and "best” offer of 5.8%.

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