PepsiCo Pushes Brisbane Smith’s Pay Cuts via Union Ballot
PepsiCo has launched a ballot to secure pay cuts at its Smith’s crisps factory in Brisbane without agreement from three unions representing more than 400 workers. For 2026–2029 it offers annual pay rises of 4.5%, 3.75%, and 3.75%, far below CPI, while housing costs strain lower-paid workers. The company has also cut 105 jobs in South Carolina, laid off 184 logistics workers in Tulsa, and closed production lines at multiple sites including two Frito-Lay plants in Orlando.