Makro strike in Mpumalanga continues

More than 350 Makro employees in Mbombela and other parts of the country are still on strike for the second week now as the demand for better wages continues.

They were seen picketing on the other side of Makro Nelspruit’s premises on Tuesday while the store’s doors were wide open for customers, as casual workers had been employed and a few of the permanent staff didn’t join the strike, Mpumalanga News reported.

Crosbie Mathumbu, shop steward of the South African Commercial Catering and Allied (SACCAWU) in Mbombela, said more than 350 employees in Mbombela demand an increase of R750 for all employees.

Nationally more 5 000 Makro workers downed their tools last week Friday in demand of a 8.5 percent increase. Mathumbu said if the 8.5 percent is equivalent to the R750, the workers will accept it.

According to Mathumbu, the empty parking space seen in some sections of the parking areas at the Makro’s premises are evident of the strike.

He said the union last met with the employer on September 20, and were offered a seven percent increase which was rejected by the workers.

He added negotiations between the union and the employer started on July 13 after which the union received a certificate to go on a legal strike.

As a result of the strike, the Mozambique Expo scheduled for this weekend at Makro Nelspruit has been postponed until further notice.

– Caxton News Service

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By Thobile Mlangeni