Negotiations stalled at Ardo as plant closure threatens 190 jobs

“The offers we are receiving are not worthy of a social plan,” criticized Dietmar Breiner, a member of the works council. The PRO-GE union also expressed disappointment, stating that the company’s latest offer was only “minimally improved.”

The works council is now escalating the situation, having submitted a request for the establishment of a conciliation body. “If the negotiations do not soon move in the right direction, we will go to arbitration,” Breiner announced.

A point of contention for the works council is the absence of direct involvement from the Belgian corporate leadership in the discussions. While the Austrian management team is conducting the negotiations, Breiner claims they lack “virtually any decision-making power,” requiring constant consultation with the headquarters in Belgium, which further delays the process.

Ardo disputes these claims, stating that the Austrian team has a “comprehensive negotiating mandate” and is closely aligned with the corporate headquarters. A spokesperson for the company emphasized their commitment to continuing the discussions to provide employees with clarity regarding their future.

A works council meeting and a general assembly for employees are scheduled for Monday. The next round of negotiations is set for November 6th. A demonstration is planned for November 9th, with participation expected from employees, farmers, and other affected parties.