News Corona crisis
Aviko fears job loss and sounds the alarm
French fries producer Aviko has sent Wouter Koolmees, the Minister of Social Affairs and Employment, a burning letter today (Friday 10 April). In this, the food company asks for a temporary wage cost subsidy. So far, the company has no right to that. This is reported by various media.
Aviko has 1.100 employees, 500 of whom work at their production location in Steenderen in Gelderland. Chris Deen, CEO of the Royal Cosun subsidiary since this year, calls on the minister in a letter to relax the current NOW (Emergency Bridging for Employment) scheme. Only parent companies can now claim this scheme.
severe situation
The letter states according to De Gelderlander that Deen fears otherwise for job retention and payment of salaries. In an explanation, Deen says that the situation can become serious if the company cannot make any claims under the scheme. If this is successful, 90% of the wage costs will be reimbursed. According to Deen, the situation is extra dire, because competitors do receive this subsidy.
No commitment
The current situation is a direct result of the corona crisis, which hits Aviko hard. The minister has not yet made any firm commitments. Employers' and employees' organizations have already asked for relaxation of the scheme.
Aviko is by far the largest company within Cosun with a 45% share. Last year was their best year ever, with an estimated turnover of €921 million.
Niels van der Boom
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