FESTIVE strike fears at a major UK supermarket chain have been averted as an improved offer has been put on the table.

Warehouse workers at Tesco distribution sites - including Livingston - were set to go on strike starting from Monday, December 20 prompting fears of Christmas shortages.

The West Lothian site supplies Tesco goods to stores across Scotland including Glasgow.

READ MORE: Scotland supermarket workers plan strike over Christmas period

However, the supermarket giant has now improved their initial offer from 4% to 6% which trade union, Usdaw, are urging members to accept.

Joanne McGuinness - Usdaw National Officer says: “The strength and solidarity of our members has secured a much improved pay deal. We have negotiated a 5.5% increase, backdated to July, and a further 0.5% from the end of February next year.

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“Having reached this improved offer, we have suspended strike action and are recommending that our members support the new offer. Retail distribution workers are key workers who delivered essential services throughout the pandemic; they deserve this pay rise.”

It is understood Unite members were also set to walk out, but Unite have not yet released any decision over next week's strikes.

A spokesperson for Tesco said: “We’re pleased to have agreed a pay deal with Usdaw that it recommends to its members. Colleagues at these centres will no longer be taking industrial action.

"We look forward to delivering a fantastic Christmas for customers.”