Negotiations between Dino Polska management and workers have collapsed, raising the prospect of an indefinite general strike across the supermarket chain’s Polish locations.
Dino Polska and Workers Remain at Odds
A dispute between Dino Polska’s management and its employees is escalating, following the breakdown of mediation talks. The OPZZ Confederation of Labour union is preparing for protests and an indefinite general strike.
The immediate cause of the escalation is the company’s absence from a scheduled mediation meeting on April 27th at the Social Partnership Centre “Dialog”.
Mediation Efforts Fail
The planned talks were another attempt to resolve the collective labor dispute. A mediator appointed by the Ministry of Labour and representatives of the trade union attended, but no one appeared from the employer’s side, which union representatives considered a breakdown in dialogue.
Strike Preparations Underway
In response, preparations for an indefinite general strike have begun, alongside plans for immediate protests. The union states that the company’s lack of response prevents further negotiations in the current format.
Warning Strike Conducted
On April 25th, a two-hour warning strike was carried out, reportedly involving hundreds of stores nationwide. The protest took various forms, including reduced work activity and informational campaigns both in front of stores and online.
Demonstration of Employee Dissatisfaction
Union officials emphasize that the warning strike demonstrated the scale of employee dissatisfaction and served as a warning of further action. They believe concrete decisions regarding working conditions and wages are necessary.
Government Intervention
The Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy has become involved. Minister Agnieszka Dziemianowicz-Bąk met with representatives of Dino Polska employees, with Liwiusz Laska also participating in the discussions.
Inspections and Legislative Changes
The Ministry reports that it is initiating requests for inspections by the State Labour Inspectorate (which have already been conducted at Dino Polska stores). The Ministry is also working on legislative changes to improve the enforcement of labour law, including a reform of the State Labour Inspectorate.
Potential Disruption to Retail Sector
Preparations for the indefinite strike could cause significant disruptions to the operation of the network, which has over two thousand stores in Poland. The strike could lead to the closure of many stores, particularly in smaller towns where Dino is a major retailer.
