Belgian unions call for supermarket strike on 14 October

Belgian trade unions are jointly calling on employees in the retail sector to join the strike on the national day of action on 14 October. They are also pushing for a “consumer strike” by customers.

“Sector in danger”

The unions have been pushing for some time for harmonization of the joint committees in the retail sector. Especially since the franchising of all Delhaize supermarket branches, they have been calling for a more level playing field. The planned government measures on night work, longer opening hours, Sunday rest, and the abolition of the mandatory rest day are also increasing the pressure on working conditions and flexibility.

But these negotiations are proving difficult, they say, and the attitude of sector organization Comeos “puts the sector at risk.” That is why they are calling on all supermarket employees, as well as those working in non-food chains, to take part in the national action next week. They are also asking customers to show their solidarity by going on a “consumption strike” next Tuesday, refraining from shopping that day and joining the protest.