An industrial dispute between New Zealand meat group Affco and its employees has deepened, with the company locking out almost 1,000 workers from its processing plants.

Last week, the firm locked out 750 workers across five plants – Moerewa, Horotiu, Whanganui, Wairoa and Feilding – ahead of industrial action at the facilities.

Workers not locked out reportedly launched a one-day strike on Friday (2 March). The strike was organised by the New Zealand Meat Workers Union, which represents the workers.

According to local reports, the group has now moved to lock out another 200 employees at its Rangiuru facility.

The industrial action followed more than a year of negotiations over the terms and conditions contained within the collective bargaining agreement between union members and the company.

Affco and the union hit a deadlock in talks, with the union accusing the company of demanding “total employment flexibility”. The agreement has been referred to the Employment Relations Authority and Employment Court.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.