The Bernese natural stone company Schär and Trojahn in Niederwangen is on the verge of bankruptcy. This development comes despite the company having a full order book. Approximately 40 employees did not receive their wages this week, leading to a strike and protests outside the offices of former board members. Allegations suggest that former board members misused company funds for personal purposes, contributing to the firm's financial collapse.
Key Takeaways
- Schär and Trojahn, a natural stone company, faces bankruptcy despite strong order volumes.
- Around 40 employees have not received their wages for the current week.
- Workers are striking and protesting, demanding their rightful pay.
- Former board members are accused of misusing company funds for private expenses.
Company Faces Insolvency Despite Strong Order Book
Schär and Trojahn, a long-standing Bernese company specializing in natural stone, is confronting severe financial difficulties. The company, located in Niederwangen, is reportedly close to bankruptcy. This situation is particularly striking because the firm currently holds a substantial number of orders.
The announcement of impending insolvency has caused shock among the workforce. Many employees are concerned about their financial future and the stability of their jobs. The company's sudden downturn has raised questions about its management and financial oversight.
Quick Facts: Schär and Trojahn
- Location: Niederwangen, Canton of Bern
- Industry: Natural Stone
- Current Status: Facing bankruptcy
- Workforce Affected: Approximately 40 employees
- Key Issue: Unpaid wages for the current week
Employees Strike Over Unpaid Wages
Around 40 employees of Schär and Trojahn did not receive their wages this week. This failure to pay led to an immediate response from the workforce. Employees initiated a strike, ceasing work activities to protest the lack of payment.
The striking workers gathered outside the offices of former board members. They demanded the payment of their outstanding wages. The protest highlighted the deep frustration and anger among the staff, who feel betrayed by the company's management.
"We worked hard, and now we have nothing. We demand our wages," stated one employee during the protest.
Protests Target Former Board Members
The employees' protests were specifically directed at individuals who previously served on the company's board. Photographs from the scene show workers holding signs and expressing their grievances. One image notably included a picture of Rolf Trojahn, a former patron of the company who passed away in 2018.
The presence of Trojahn's image suggests a historical connection to the company's past leadership. It implies a sense of loss for the company's former stability and a contrast with the current crisis. The workers' actions underscore their belief that past decisions or mismanagement contributed to the present financial collapse.
Background on Swiss Labor Law
In Switzerland, employees have strong protections regarding wage payments. If a company faces insolvency, employees are typically considered priority creditors for outstanding wages. However, the process of recovering wages can be complex and time-consuming, often involving insolvency proceedings and government-backed wage guarantee schemes.
Such situations can cause significant financial hardship for affected families. The current strike at Schär and Trojahn reflects the immediate impact of these financial failures on individual lives.
Allegations of Fund Misuse Surface
Reports indicate serious allegations of financial misconduct. Former board members are accused of misusing company funds for their private benefit. These alleged actions are believed to be a primary cause of the company's current financial distress.
The exact nature and extent of the alleged misuse are under investigation. If proven, such actions would constitute a severe breach of fiduciary duty. They would also explain how a company with a full order book could rapidly descend into bankruptcy.
Impact on Employees and Local Economy
The potential bankruptcy of Schär and Trojahn has a direct impact on its 40 employees and their families. Losing jobs and outstanding wages creates immediate financial insecurity. It also affects the local economy of Niederwangen.
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are vital to the Swiss economy. The failure of a company like Schär and Trojahn sends ripples through the community. It can lead to decreased consumer spending and increased demand for social services.
- Financial hardship: Employees face immediate income loss.
- Job market strain: 40 individuals now seek new employment.
- Supplier impact: Other businesses relying on Schär and Trojahn may suffer.
- Community morale: The news can affect local confidence.
Future Outlook for Schär and Trojahn
The future for Schär and Trojahn remains uncertain. The company must navigate bankruptcy proceedings while addressing employee demands. Authorities will likely investigate the allegations of fund misuse.
The outcome of these investigations will be crucial. It will determine accountability for the company's failure. It may also offer some recourse for the affected employees seeking their unpaid wages.
The situation at Schär and Trojahn serves as a stark reminder of the importance of sound corporate governance. It also highlights the need for transparency in financial dealings, especially in traditional family businesses.