Where strikes in the previous two collective bargaining rounds were narrowly avoided, yesterday (Monday 16 February) action occurred at the Villeroy & Boch factory in Roden. Around one hundred employees brought the production of luxury sanitary products to a complete halt for a full day. The union described the situation as a 'lack of respect' from management, while management pointed to the long-term competitive position.
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The 24-hour strike began on Sunday evening at 23:30 with the night shift. On Monday morning, the strikers gathered at the factory gate on Dwazziewegen to register officially. The action followed an expired ultimatum and a petition handed to management by dozens of employees last Thursday, which failed to achieve the desired result.
Management refuses to budge
According to CNV negotiator Lisa Kuiper, employees feel 'not heard, not seen and not understood'. The main stumbling block appears to be the influence of the German headquarters. 'The Dutch management listens to Germany, and there they refuse to move,' said Kuiper.
The key issues in the negotiations are twofold:
- Pay: Villeroy & Boch proposes a 4% wage increase over 14 months. The unions demand that this increase be applied immediately in full to prevent lagging behind inflation.
- Sustainable employability: Employees are seeking a generation pact (80% work, 90% pay, 100% pension accrual) and better arrangements for heavy work to allow them to retire in good health.
Response from Villeroy & Boch
The management of the sanitary manufacturer expressed regret over the strike in a written statement. Despite the willingness to act, management remains firm in its position. The company emphasised that the proposal is necessary to safeguard the long-term competitiveness of the Drenthe site. 'Although we remain fully open to further discussions, our current stance on the financial package remains unchanged,' said management.
The strike in Roden, where primarily high-quality (Quaryl) baths and shower trays are produced, comes at a time when the sanitary market is under pressure due to economic volatility. Although the factory has resumed operations, the unions warn that further action is not ruled out if the German management does not present an improved offer.
