Supermarket chain Delhaize on Wednesday closed two of its branches, one in Brussels (Ixelles-Flagey) and one in Mons, for security reasons over reports of vandalism, according to spokesperson Roel Dekelver.
Delhaize management has shut down supermarket branches in Mons and Flagey for a few days, due to “facts of vandalism that do not allow the safety of employees and customers to be guaranteed,” it claimed.
The company would not disclose more details. “But a line has been crossed.” Some employees are also said to have filed a complaint.
The staff of those two supermarkets who want to work will be sent to other branches. Those who do not want to work can strike or take leave.
On Wednesday, there are no supermarkets closed due to the union movement of protest of management's franchising plans.
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Labour negotiations have been deadlocked since the announcement of the intention to corporatise in early March.
The management claims it will guarantee the retention of wages and working conditions for the 9,000 employees involved when the shops are taken over by independent operators, but the unions are questioning the true intentions.
On Tuesday 2 May, management and unions will meet again to discuss the plans.
