The supermarket chain Lidl reported on Thursday morning that five of its distribution centres are being blocked by trade unionists, according to Isabelle Colbrandt, the head of general affairs.
The German retailer stated that the action is being carried out by union members from ACVPuls/CNE and expressed regret over the situation, noting that a national union meeting is scheduled for Tuesday.
The affected centres are located in La Louvière, Marche-en-Famenne, Genk, Saint-Nicolas, and Gullegem, according to Lidl.
The coordinated action highlights what workers describe as an "untenable" workload within the store, according to CNE National Secretary Myriam Djegham.
Union demands include addressing a structural staff shortage, which has forced staff to re-stock shelves weekly with adequate personnel and working additional hours being beyond legal limits.
In recent days, some stores have been closed to customers by union delegates to restock shelves, Djegham noted.
Unions demand that Lidl’s management present a concrete plan to improve the situation by 10th June, warning that a strike notice may be issued if not, Djegham concluded.
Lidl commented that there was no prior consultation with the involved unionists, insisting that the company always prefers constructive dialogue, and assures it is maintaining communication with the unions.
