Credits: IlManifesto
For the first time in thirty years and more, the workers at Benetton's main factory in Castrette di Villorba, northern Italy, went on strike on this week. The catalyst for the strike was an email sent to approximately eighty workers that announced new "solidarity contracts" would be implemented by the company, which would cut around 90% of hours until 31 December, meaning they would stay at home nine out of ten days.
Workers claim the company decided this without any consultation and only three days' notice. Approximately 75% of the 750 workers went on strike and protested outside the factory gates on Monday morning and then moved to the nearby road after management blocked journalists from entering the factory site. The workers were supported by the three main union federations, Filctem CGIL, Femca CISL and Uiltec UIL, protesting against the company's unilateral decision, which they claimed was "disproportionate". They are not against temporary social measures, but stress the scale and lack of transparency.
Benetton has been facing prolonged financial difficulties: since 2012, its revenues have halved and more than 500 shops have closed. The workers are now demanding a more equitable rotation system, less drastic cuts in hours, and more clarity on the long-term industrial plan of the company.
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