Christian trade union ACV announced a spontaneous strike at the Hoegaarden beer factory on Monday evening.
Employees have expressed anger at an unexpected decision to get rid of a specific role in the production process and supplement it with other workers. "There was no debate or negotiation," stated ACV secretary Sander Mouton. "This decision will lead to several job losses. For employees already dealing with a large workload, this news is unacceptable. They have therefore decided to stage a walkout."
ACV has confirmed that the strike will continue into Tuesday. What started as a walkout of dozens of workers has now involved over 30. While only one department has mobilised, it has brought production to a standstill.
"We deeply regret the impromptu strike at the Hoegaarden brewery," AB InBev stated. "We have announced our intention to revise the content and responsibilities of two roles. We want to assure that no dismissals will occur and we hope for a constructive dialogue."
Despite management's emphasis on its desire to avoid dismissals, Mouton is wary. "Even if there are no dismissals, that doesn't mean there aren't any problems. The workers say it is impossible to take on these additional tasks."
A meeting between management and the unions is scheduled at 14:00 this Tuesday.
History of unrest
In 2005, AB InBev attempted to move Hoegaarden production from the town of the same name to a plant in Leuven. This was met with fierce protest from locals. On top of the socio-economic impact, the community was concerned about the loss of a local craft. The move never occurred as a result.
The world's biggest brewer has recently seen strikes from its employees in Belgium and further afield. Its international workforce has felt the need to protest wage cuts, axed jobs and a lack of health and safety in the workplace.
