Ontex factory staff in Eeklo reject social agreement on closure (Eeklo)

A social plan has been negotiated for the 347 employees, which has been presented to the employees since last Thursday. It contains details about severance payments and accompanying measures. But the management’s proposal is not appreciated, according to the result that was announced on Monday at 2 p.m.

“That is quite clear,” says David Baele of ABVV. “The departure bonus in particular is insufficient for the staff.” It would amount to around 1,200 euros per year worked. These are gross amounts. “These people have had to swallow reforms for years. Reorganisations have been implemented and the workload has increased.”

“All with the threat that if they did not accept this, the factory would close. And now it turns out that the company will eventually just close.” Ontex is not loss-making but is subject to heavy competition from branded products. In the past, activities have also been transferred to low-wage countries such as Mexico.

Management and unions have been meeting since Monday afternoon to discuss how to proceed. Management is said to be working on a second proposal, which should be tabled next Monday. But in the meantime, no work will be done, say the unions. Ontex also wants to downsize a department in Buggenhout to an expertise center. 150 jobs will disappear there, but negotiations on a social agreement have not yet been completed.