Farmland in Pforzheim undergoes assault by Verdi
The service union Verdi has announced a strike at the Kaufland branch "At the Mill Canal" in Brotzingen on December 20-21, 2023. The strike is a result of ongoing concerns about labor conditions, wages, and working conditions at the store.
Union's Demands and Rationale
The union has outlined several key demands:
- Wage Increase: Verdi is advocating for a significant wage increase to keep pace with inflation and address the rising cost of living.
- Improved Working Conditions: The union has raised concerns over excessive workloads, shift schedules, and the overall treatment of workers at the Kaufland store.
- Job Security: Verdi is seeking stronger assurances regarding job security amidst industry pressure and retail restructuring.
- Recognition of Union Agreements: The strike aims to push Kaufland to adhere more closely to collective bargaining agreements already agreed upon.
The strike is strategically timed to coincide with the busy pre-Christmas shopping period, aiming to draw public and management attention to these issues.
Broader Context
The strikes at the Kaufland branches are not isolated incidents. They are part of a broader effort by Verdi to push for their demands in the 2023 wage round. The employers' associations have not returned to the negotiating table despite their promise in the top-level talks.
The strikes at the Kaufland branches in Brotzingen, Calw, and Nagold are not the first announced or taken by Verdi. Strikes have already taken place at the Pforzheim-East branch, and union members will gather for rallies in Calw and Nagold on December 20 and 21, respectively.
Robin Weller, the trade union secretary of Verdi, stated that the employees are striking because they have no other choice due to the employers' associations' lack of cooperation. He emphasized that the strikes are not voluntary but a necessary action.
For more specific statements or press releases from Verdi or Kaufland about the strike, additional information can be found through official union and company sources.
"Verdi's demands for a wage increase in the retail industry extend beyond the Kaufland branch at Mill Canal, as they aim to keep pace with inflation and cost of living concerns in the broader financial sector."
" Amidst ongoing strikes at various Kaufland branches and a lack of cooperation from employers' associations, finance officials should take note of the impact these labor disputes might have on the retail industry and consumer confidence during the crucial pre-Christmas shopping period."
