Coop, Switzerland’s largest retailer, recognizes trade union

Coop becomes the first major Swiss retailer to recognize a trade union

Coop, Switzerland’s largest retailer, has recognized a trade union for the first time in its 126-year history.

The move comes after years of pressure from employees and unions. Coop has been criticized for its low wages and poor working conditions. In 2020, employees at a Coop store in Zurich went on strike over pay and conditions.

The agreement with the trade union will see Coop employees receive a pay increase of 1.5% and improved working conditions. The union will also have a say in decisions that affect employees, such as scheduling and working hours.

The recognition of a trade union by Coop is a significant step forward for workers’ rights in Switzerland. It is hoped that other major retailers will follow Coop’s lead and recognize unions.

Background of the Coop-trade union agreement

The agreement between Coop and the trade union was reached after months of negotiations. The union had been pushing for Coop to recognize it for several years, but the retailer had resisted.

In 2020, employees at a Coop store in Zurich went on strike over pay and conditions. The strike was successful in forcing Coop to negotiate with the union.

The agreement that was reached includes a pay increase of 1.5% for Coop employees, as well as improved working conditions. The union will also have a say in decisions that affect employees, such as scheduling and working hours.

Significance of the Coop-trade union agreement

The recognition of a trade union by Coop is a significant step forward for workers’ rights in Switzerland. It is the first time that a major Swiss retailer has recognized a union.

The agreement is expected to lead to better pay and conditions for Coop employees. It will also give employees a voice in decisions that affect their work lives.

The recognition of a trade union by Coop is a sign that the tide is turning in favor of workers’ rights in Switzerland. It is hoped that other major retailers will follow Coop’s lead and recognize unions.