The Bern-based natural stone company Schär + Trojahn is in severe financial crisis. Employees have not received their September salaries. The Unia trade union reports that the nearly 100-year-old firm, despite a full order book, is on the brink of closure. Workers are now on strike, demanding their overdue payments and answers from former management.
Key Takeaways
- Schär + Trojahn employees did not receive September wages.
- The company, almost a century old, faces closure.
- Workers are striking and demanding payment.
- Former board members resigned before the crisis became public.
- Legal action for alleged mismanagement is being prepared.
Wage Crisis Hits Natural Stone Company
The situation at Schär + Trojahn, located in Niederwangen, Bern, is critical. The Unia trade union announced that around 40 employees have not received their salaries for September. This comes as a shock to many, as the company has a full workload, according to the union. The firm specializes in processing natural stone for kitchens and bathrooms.
Attempts to reach the company by phone lead to a recorded message. The message states that staff are on strike due to unpaid wages. This development has left many long-term employees feeling vulnerable.
Company Details
- Name: Schär + Trojahn AG
- Location: Niederwangen, Bern
- Industry: Natural stone processing
- Age: Nearly 100 years
- Employees: Approximately 40
Employee Protests and Demands
Workers began their strike early on Friday morning. They are demanding their outstanding wages. They also call on the former board of directors to take responsibility for the current situation. The news of unpaid wages caught employees off guard, according to Unia.
"The employees were not prepared," stated a Unia representative. "Many have worked at the company for decades, accumulated overtime and vacation days, and now stand without pay."
One demonstrator told 20 Minuten that employees only learned on Wednesday that their Thursday paychecks would not be issued. This short notice caused significant distress among the workforce. Many now face an uncertain future.
Demonstration in Bern
On Friday morning, employees held a protest in Bern's Lorraine district. They arrived by bus and expressed their anger for 30 minutes. A reporter from 20 Minuten observed the demonstration.
During the protest, some individuals raised suspicions of corruption within the board of directors. However, no evidence supports these claims at this time. The focus of the demonstration remained on the immediate financial hardship faced by the employees.
Background on Employee Impact
Many employees at Schär + Trojahn have dedicated significant portions of their careers to the company. The sudden loss of income affects not only individuals but entire families. The lack of prior warning intensified the shock and concern among staff.
Leadership Absence and Legal Actions
The company's management is currently in disarray. According to Unia, the executive leadership is effectively non-existent. When the editorial team attempted to contact management via email, an out-of-office reply indicated illness. The reply directed inquiries to a general information email address and phone number, which features the recorded message about the strike.
Unia states that the company is legally unable to act. An application for the appointment of a special administrator has been filed with the Bern Cantonal Court. This step aims to bring legal clarity and potentially stabilize the company's operations.
Former Board Members Under Scrutiny
A significant point of contention involves the former board members. They reportedly resigned from the board on September 15, shortly before the crisis became public. Unia accuses them of withdrawing from the company and refusing to take any responsibility.
The union alleges mismanagement and possible private enrichment. A criminal complaint is currently being prepared against these individuals. This suggests serious legal consequences could follow the company's collapse.
Timeline of Events
- September 15: Former board members resign.
- Wednesday (before Sept 26): Employees informed of unpaid wages.
- Thursday (before Sept 26): September wages not paid.
- Friday (Sept 26): Employees begin strike and protest.
- Ongoing: Legal proceedings initiated by Unia.
Employee Concerns and Future Outlook
Employees expressed confusion and anger over the sudden turn of events. "We were constantly informed that the company was doing well," one demonstrator explained. "Employees worked continuously and even did overtime. How does that fit with the current situation?"
This individual, fortunate to share costs with a partner, highlighted the severe impact on others. "We also have fathers of families working here who are now facing ruin." The sudden loss of income poses significant challenges for those with dependents.
However, a glimmer of hope emerged during the demonstration. Employees were informed that the board of directors would provide updates later that afternoon. This suggests some communication might be re-established regarding the company's future.
The situation at Schär + Trojahn highlights the severe impact of corporate financial distress on employees and their families. The unfolding legal and financial challenges will be closely monitored by Bern News Today.
