'Union suppression tactics over dialogue': DGB Regensburg denounces IKEA for labor intimidation
In a series of legal disputes, IKEA is facing growing opposition from employees, labour unions, and political groups over allegations of union busting and intimidation tactics. The latest chapter in this ongoing saga involves works council member Ludwig Doblinger, who has been embroiled in a legal battle with the furniture giant since November 2024.
The dispute centres around accusations of expense fraud and time fraud, concerning an amount of 33 euros for lunch during a meeting. However, the labor court has found that IKEA did not meet deadlines, did not properly hear the works council, and that Doblinger had not committed any gross breach of duty. IKEA's lawyer appeared unprepared at a recent hearing about unaccounted hours, unable to answer the court's questions or propose any settlement.
The labor court's previous rejection of IKEA's lawsuit has not deterred the company from appealing to the Regional Labor Court Munich. IKEA is currently appealing to the second instance, following the labor court's rejection.
The District Board of DGB Regensburg has expressed strong disapproval towards IKEA's management's approach towards an active works council, labeling it as a clear case of union busting. DGB District Chairman Rico Irmischer has stated that IKEA's attempt to silence an active works council member by means of fabricated accusations is a clear case of union busting. Katja Ertl, deputy chair of the DGB district association, has stated that the fight against co-determination is a fight against democracy in the workplace.
Many employees have started a solidarity campaign under the slogan "Ludwig must stay" in response to IKEA's approach towards an active works council. Several employees were present at the negotiations at the labor court, showing their support for Doblinger. The Working Group for Employee Issues in the SPD has also intervened in the dispute, accusing IKEA of "intimidation tactics".
Another legal dispute is pending, concerning almost 280 working hours and a gross amount of 5,800 euros. The next court date is expected in December.
The solidarity campaign and interventions from various groups suggest growing opposition to IKEA's approach towards the works council. The labour court noted that Doblinger is the only works council member at IKEA to whom such a thorough examination of the disputed accounting practice has been carried out. It remains to be seen how IKEA will respond to these ongoing challenges and the growing backlash from employees and labour unions.
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