Shoprite Checkers and the South African Commercial, Catering and Allied Workers’ Union (Saccawu) would begin talks on Friday to end a pay strike by workers, the union said.
”Shoprite requested the CCMA [Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration] to intervene and a meeting has been set up for today [Friday],” said Saccawu negotiator Thoko Mchunu.
”The meeting is scheduled to begin at the CCMA office in Johannesburg at 11.30am.”
Lunch-time pickets began on July 18, and the strike started last Thursday.
”It’s no longer just lunchtime pickets. This is now a full-blown strike and our members will continue to strike until they get feedback to end the strike,” said Mchunu.
She said the public has supported Saccawu’s call to boycott the store.
”So far the strike has had a positive impact. Some Shoprite stores in Themba and Lusikisiki are closed because there are no customers going there.”
Mchunu said no marches are planned because the company decided to go the CCMA for intervention.
Saccawu has demanded the greater of a wage increase of R300 or 10%, and improved working conditions. Shoprite has offered R265. — Sapa