Wolffkran Issues Statement as UK Tower Crane Operators Begin Strike Action
- Meagan Wood
- Jan 27
- 3 min read
30 Second Takeaway
As Wolffkran UK tower crane operators prepared to strike, the company issued a detailed statement citing historic pay increases, declining crane utilisation, and falling rental rates, while placing responsibility for the dispute on Unite and its members.
Strike Action at Wolffkran UK
On the day that tower crane operators employed by Wolffkran UK were due to commence industrial action, the company released a comprehensive statement addressing the dispute.
The action follows negotiations between Wolffkran and Unite the Union, with operators seeking further pay increases despite the company stating it made an offer in August to significantly raise basic pay.
Wolffkran’s Position on Pay and Negotiations
In its statement, Wolffkran said it was disappointed that a proportion of its 123 tower crane operators had chosen to proceed with strike action.
The company stated:
“Despite receiving an offer from the company in August to significantly increase their basic pay and having received over 38% in pay increases since 2015, Wolffkran tower crane operators are now engaged in industrial action in a quest for more money.”
Wolffkran said the average operator pay is almost £66,000 per year, with the highest gross earnings in 2025 reaching just under £110,000.
The company placed responsibility for the disruption on Unite, citing what it described as inflexibility during negotiations and a lack of willingness to resume dialogue, while stating it remains open to further discussions.
Additional Context Provided by Wolffkran
Wolffkran outlined several additional factors in support of its position:
Pay awards of 38.3% since 2015, compared with inflation of 35.2% over the same period
Average operator earnings broadly comparable to civil engineers, construction managers, and train drivers
An average length of service of 12 years and nine months among operators
A 26% reduction in crane utilisation since 2016
A 40% reduction in cranes on hire over the same period
Average rental rate reductions of 20–25%, depending on crane model
The company said these pressures have significantly impacted overall business performance.
Union Activity on Site
At the time of publication, small numbers of pickets were reported at construction sites where Wolffkran tower cranes are operating. Pickets were observed holding Unite posters, marking the visible start of industrial action.
Industry Context
While avoiding taking sides in the dispute, the situation highlights broader challenges within the UK construction and crane rental market.
Wolffkran’s statement draws attention to declining commercial crane rental rates, despite contractors demanding increasingly high equipment specifications and performance standards. The company also referenced inefficiencies and cost overruns on major UK infrastructure projects, which continue to place pressure on specialist plant providers.
About Wolffkran
Wolffkran is an international tower crane manufacturer and rental provider headquartered in Germany, with operations across Europe and beyond. The company designs, manufactures, sells, and rents high-performance tower cranes for construction and infrastructure projects worldwide.
Wolffkran UK operates a fleet of tower cranes supporting major commercial, residential, and infrastructure developments across the United Kingdom. The company provides crane rental, erection, servicing, and operator support, with a focus on safety, engineering quality, and long-term project partnerships.
Website: https://www.wolffkran.com/
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Wolffkran UK tower crane operators striking?
Operators are seeking further pay increases following negotiations with the company, despite Wolffkran stating that significant pay rises have already been awarded since 2015.
How much do Wolffkran operators earn on average?
According to Wolffkran, average operator earnings are almost £66,000 per year, with the highest gross earnings in 2025 just under £110,000.
What impact has market pressure had on Wolffkran’s business?
The company reports reduced crane utilisation, fewer cranes on hire, and declining rental rates, all of which have affected overall financial performance.
Is Wolffkran open to further negotiations?
Wolffkran says it remains open to further discussions, although it claims Unite has shown little appetite to resume dialogue.
