Cleaners, fuellers and shunters at the Caledonia, Scotstoun, Blantyre and Overtown depots are preparing to walk out after voting in favour of industrial action.
The dispute centres on calls for a pay rise to bring these workers in line with other groups, such as bus drivers.
Unite the Union says that without these staff, First Glasgow’s fleet would be unable to operate due to safety, cleanliness and recharging requirements.
This could lead to widespread delays, cancellations and potentially take buses off the road entirely.
Graham McNabb, industrial officer for Unite, said to the Scottish Sun: “Unite can confirm that we have a mandate for strike action for First Bus cleaners, fuellers and shunters at the Caledonia, Scotstoun, Blantyre and Overtown bus depots.
“We remain in constant dialogue with our membership and no final decision has been taken on when strike action takes place.
“Let’s remember, First Glasgow are an extremely profitable company.
“The root cause of this dispute is down to their penny pinching and denying our members what they deserve across Glasgow when they can easily afford to settle this dispute.”
No strike dates have been set yet, but Unite has warned that service disruption is likely if industrial action goes ahead.
The union has described First Glasgow as an “extremely profitable company,” pointing to financial figures showing profits of £14.1 million at First Glasgow No.1 in March 2024, and £11.2 million at First Glasgow No.2 in March 2025.
Duncan Cameron, Managing Director of First Bus in Scotland, said:
“We are disappointed in the decision of Unite to announce plans for industrial action.
“The original pay offer we have made of 8.4 per cent over two years is above current inflation for each annual increase. It also ensures colleagues continue to be among the best paid for these depot support roles.
“The management team at First Bus in Glasgow remains committed to reaching a settlement and joined extensive talks at the arbitration service, ACAS on Tuesday in the hope of finding an agreement. Despite attempts towards further improved offers we have been unable to reach an agreement through this process.
“If the planned industrial action takes place, we are confident bus services will not be affected. The Glasgow team is ready and willing to continue discussions and we encourage Unite to join us so we can finalise a settlement and help avoid any potential disruption to the daily lives of our customers.”
Workers at the affected depots were balloted in November.
Unite says these workers are the lowest paid within the First group and are demanding a pay rise in line with other bargaining groups including drivers.