The trade union protest at Delhaize seems to be gradually fading out. That protest started on March 7, when the chain announced that it wanted to privatize its 128 supermarkets. Every day, dozens of shops closed their doors in protest.
But on Tuesday there are still three of the 128: one in Antwerp, one in Mons and one in Brussels (Ixelles-Flagey). Delhaize itself decided to keep the last two stores closed for a few days, due to “facts of vandalism that cannot guarantee the safety of employees and customers”, it sounds.
The company declined to provide more details. “But a line has been crossed.” Some employees would also have filed a complaint. The staff of those two stores who want to work will be sent to other branches. Those who do not want to work can strike or take leave.
A social conflict has been taking place at Delhaize since the management announced on March 7 that it wants to privatize all 128 supermarkets under its own management. Despite three special works councils and two attempts at reconciliation led by a social mediator, consultations between the trade unions and the management are still deadlocked.