A two-day work stoppage by hundreds of employees at Hortifrut SAC near Trujillo, northern Peru, halted operations last week at one of the world's largest berry producers. Hortifrut has provided a statement below.
"We are deeply saddened by the workplace accident that occurred last week at our operation in Chao, Peru, in which one of our colleagues lost his life," the statement begins. From the first hours, the company informed their teams and the local community through official channels, expressing their condolences and support to his family and co-workers. The company continues to cooperate fully with the authorities in the ongoing investigation and is committed to supporting the family, with whom they are closely coordinating to address their needs.
Following the accident, on Monday 13 October, a group of workers initiated a stoppage to raise workplace concerns unrelated to the incident. "In Peru, our workforce has access to multiple channels to express concerns; each complaint is investigated and answered." Employees are represented by elected unions and worker representatives, as well as by the welfare committee, and site management conducts regular, open dialogue and negotiations with them. "We also operate a strict non-retaliation policy and continue to make significant efforts to keep all dialogue open, transparent and constructive. In light of the national context, Hortifrut Peru temporarily suspended operations to safeguard people and to focus discussions with their representatives.
As a result of this dialogue, an agreement was reached that addresses several specific points and establishes a permanent social-dialogue mechanism to deal with broader matters. "Operations have been active since Wednesday, 15 October, and we do not anticipate a material impact on our ability to meet customer commitments."
Hortifrut respects freedom of association and the right to organise. The company rejects any form of violence and remains committed to maintaining safe and respectful working environments, in full compliance with applicable regulations.
Source: Hortifruit
