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Coteminas Plans To Lay Off 700 Employees In Blumenau While Taking Over Production For Shein In Brazil

Written by Bruno Teles
Published on 04/07/2023 at 16:30
Coteminas planeja demitir 700 funcionários em Blumenau enquanto assume produção para Shein no Brasil
Foto: divulgação
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Company Proposes To Installment Dismissal Payments In 15 Installments, Causing Dissatisfaction Among Workers. New Work Model Is Attributed To Contract With Shein, Which Generates Uncertainties In The Workforce

In the current scenario, Coteminas is preparing for a significant change at its unit in Blumenau, Santa Catarina. The company plans to lay off about 700 employees, according to the Textile Workers Union of Blumenau, Gaspar and Indaial. This news alone already causes a great impact in the region and among affected workers.

In a meeting held last week, Coteminas provided more information about the mass layoff. The company surprised many by proposing to installment the dismissal payments of employees in 15 installments. This approach has generated dissatisfaction and concern among the workforce, who expect to receive their rights in full and immediately.

Coteminas Justifies This Measure As Part Of A Production Adjustment Process At Its Blumenau Unit

The company claims it is implementing a new work model that will require new industrial equipment and an adjustment of the personnel. Despite the explanation, workers speculate that this change is related to the contract signed with Shein, a giant in Asian fashion retail.

It is not uncommon for companies to undergo restructurings and operational adjustments. However, it is essential that communication and negotiation with employees are carried out in a transparent and fair manner. In this sense, the way Coteminas has handled the situation has generated distrust and apprehension among workers.

Coteminas, Led By Josué Gomes Da Silva, President Of Fiesp, Has An Important Contract With Shein For National Fashion Production

This agreement was recently announced, in the presence of President Luiz Inácio Lula Da Silva, during a ceremony that included representatives from both sides. However, the relationship between this partnership and the layoffs in Blumenau is still unclear.

According to reports from the president of the workers’ union, Carlos Alexandre Maske, Coteminas informed that part of the manufacturing unit will be dedicated to fulfilling the contract with Shein, specifically in the finishing sector. This sector is responsible for operations such as dyeing, drying, and finishing of fabrics. However, the union highlights that the number of employees dedicated to this area is small, raising concerns about the impact of layoffs on production capacity.

The Economic Context Also Contributes To The Tension Between Coteminas And Its Employees

Recently, the industry has faced difficulties, which were exacerbated during the pandemic. The union president mentions that in 2022 the factory hardly produced, raising concerns about the future of the workplace. Delays in FGTS deposits and salaries have also been identified, generating even more uncertainty and discontent among the workforce.

About Coteminas

The Coteminas factory in Blumenau has a long history, operating since 1936 when it was still known as Artex. With a primary focus on producing towels, comforters, sheets, and pillowcases, the company has undergone changes over the years, culminating in its acquisition by Coteminas in 2001. During the pandemic, the factory adapted and began producing masks, aiming to meet the emergency demands of the market.

In the face of this challenging scenario, Blumenau workers came together in an assembly to create a negotiation committee with Coteminas. The goal is to seek a solution that meets the interests of employees, including the suspension of layoffs and full payment of dismissal funds. The possibility of a demonstration in front of Fiesp is also being considered as a way to pressure for a fair resolution for all involved.

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Bruno Teles

Falo sobre tecnologia, inovação, petróleo e gás. Atualizo diariamente sobre oportunidades no mercado brasileiro. Com mais de 7.000 artigos publicados nos sites CPG, Naval Porto Estaleiro, Mineração Brasil e Obras Construção Civil. Sugestão de pauta? Manda no brunotelesredator@gmail.com

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