ERFURT (dpa-AFX) - Following a labor court ruling, a conciliation board must now mediate at Zalando's Erfurt site. This will be a key agenda item at the second works meeting for employees of the logistics center, which is currently facing closure. The staff meeting is scheduled for April 15 at one of the Erfurt exhibition halls, according to the works council.
The online fashion retailer employs approximately 2,700 people at the Erfurt logistics hub. Under the DAX-listed group's current plans, the facility is slated for closure in September. The employee representative body is actively contesting this decision.
Works Council Alleges Obstructionism
The works council stated that the meeting aims to send a "clear signal in favor of co-determination and against management's current refusal to engage in dialogue." They added, "It is time for plain speaking," accusing management of an obstructionist stance. To date, leadership has reportedly refused to "engage in genuine exchange." Furthermore, the employee representatives intend to present an alternative plan.
The meeting will also cover information regarding the risks associated with severance agreements. The objective of the assembly is to underscore the workforce's demands for "fair conditions and genuine appreciation."
Eight-Member Arbitration Panel
Following a labor court decision a few days ago, a conciliation board is set to mediate the conflict surrounding the closure of the major Zalando logistics center. The online fashion retailer had requested the board and petitioned the court. Under labor law, conciliation boards serve as an arbitration body within companies when the works council and employer cannot reach an agreement on critical issues.
The conciliation board will consist of four assessors representing each party. According to court records, Josef Molkenbur, a former judge and State Secretary of Justice from Saxony-Anhalt, has been appointed as chairman./rot/DP/he
