What was the Lee jeans factory occupation in Greenock about?

In February 1981, predominantly female workers occupied the Lee jeans factory in Greenock for seven months to protest against the company's plans to transfer operations elsewhere.

How did the community support the striking workers?

The Inverclyde community rallied around the workers by organizing fundraisers and sharing essential supplies like food and provisions.

What is 'Stand and Deliver: The Lee Jeans Sit In'?

'Stand and Deliver: The Lee Jeans Sit In' is a new stage musical inspired by the 1981 occupation of the Lee jeans factory in Greenock.

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Lee Jeans Sit-In: Factory Occupation Inspires New Musical

29 Apr

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Summary

Female workers occupied a factory for seven months in 1981.
Their strike inspired a new stage musical called Stand and Deliver.
The community provided support, raising money and sharing provisions.

Lee Jeans Sit-In: Factory Occupation Inspires New Musical

In February 1981, workers at the Lee jeans factory in Greenock initiated a remarkable seven-month occupation after negotiations with owners Vanity Fair Corporation failed. The predominantly female workforce, facing the company's desire to transfer operations, barricaded themselves inside the factory. This action became a significant chapter in Scottish industrial history.

The Inverclyde community provided unwavering support, organizing fundraisers and sharing essential supplies. During the occupation, the factory hosted performances, including a play by 7:84 that humorously depicted strike life, predating the film 'Brassed Off' by 15 years.