In an extraordinary turn of events, employees at the Auchan store in Kielce’s Galeria Korona shopping mall have taken drastic measures to secure their unpaid wages. After the franchisor declared bankruptcy and halted salary payments, the workers decided to seize store merchandise and sell it for cash.
This situation came to light on June 11, when the Facebook page “Pracownicza Demokracja Kielce” shared a post urging people to shop at the store, emphasizing that “all proceeds from sales will go to the employees” and that “purchases should be made in cash only.” The post quickly attracted media attention and public interest.
The employees, faced with a lack of intervention from higher authorities, took matters into their own hands. They decided to confiscate goods from the store and sell them to cover their overdue wages. The incident has been likened to a scene from a thriller, yet it is a stark reality for these workers. Despite the unconventional approach, Auchan has acknowledged the situation and expressed its commitment to supporting the affected employees.
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In a statement sent to the news portal next.gazeta.pl, Auchan clarified that although the store operates as a franchise and they do not have direct control over its operations, they are not indifferent to the plight of the workers. “We are in contact with the store manager and are exploring all available options to support the staff,” the statement read. Additionally, Auchan is considering hiring some of the employees from the Kielce store in other Auchan locations. There is also the possibility that the store in Galeria Korona might be integrated into Auchan’s own network.
However, the legality of the employees’ actions remains a significant concern. According to legal experts from the website bezprawnik.pl, seizing and selling store merchandise could be deemed a criminal offense, specifically theft. Employees who find themselves without their rightful wages do have legal recourse. They can report the issue to the State Labor Inspectorate, file a lawsuit in labor court for payment, or opt for “reverse discipline,” allowing them to terminate their employment contract without notice due to the employer’s breach.
Despite the legal uncertainties, the actions taken by the Auchan employees highlight the desperation and frustration felt by workers who have been left in a precarious financial situation. The case has sparked a broader conversation about workers’ rights and the responsibilities of franchisors and parent companies in ensuring fair treatment and timely payment.
Auchan’s response, though supportive, also underscores the complexities involved in franchise operations where the parent company may have limited control but is still perceived as responsible for upholding labor standards. This incident at the Kielce Auchan store serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by employees when corporate and legal frameworks fail to protect their fundamental rights.
As the situation develops, it will be crucial to monitor how Auchan’s support measures materialize and whether legal actions will be taken against the employees. The outcome could set a significant precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future, balancing legal accountability with the need for compassionate and practical solutions for workers in distress.
