A planned 48-hour strike by over 400 Bilfinger UK employees in the UK North Sea has been suspended. The industrial action, which was set to begin on 19 February and would have impacted operations at up to 19 offshore fields operated by several major energy companies, was related to a pension dispute.

Improved Offer and Union Response

The suspension follows a new, improved offer from Bilfinger UK regarding pension contributions. The trade union Unite stated that the threat of strike action prompted the company to return to negotiations and make an offer to increase its contributions to the pension scheme.

Next Steps

Union members will now consider the improved offer through a consultative ballot, which is scheduled to close on 23 February 2026. A Unite representative noted that the members' determination forced the company back to talks, and they will decide if this new offer is sufficient to resolve the dispute.