Hangana concludes first wage negotiations with workers' council

Hangana Seafood, a subsidiary of the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group, recently announced the conclusion of its wage negotiations with the workers' council. This marks the first time these negotiations have been conducted with representation from a workers' council, a significant shift from previous years when a union led the negotiations. Both the company and the workers' council acknowledge that the process has been a valuable learning experience for both sides.

Hangana, in alignment with its core characteristics of being truly authentic, caring and passionate is committed to improving employee relations and creating an environment where staff feel respected and valued, the company said. The fishing industry is complex, and labour relations often reflect that complexity. "This first negotiation process with the workers' council demonstrates that, through empathy, transparency and a willingness to learn, both parties can authentically work together to achieve outcomes that benefit everyone."

Managing director Francois Olivier said: "I am incredibly proud of the way the workers’ council conducted itself during this process. Despite it being their first time negotiating in this capacity, they demonstrated honesty, openness and a strong sense of responsibility towards both their colleagues and the long-term vision, Vision 2029, of the company. We recognise that there is still work to be done, but we are optimistic about the future and committed to continuing our collaboration for the benefit of both the business and its employees".

Lucia Hamunyala, chairperson of the workers’ council, reflected on the experience: "It is the first year that the company and the workers' council have negotiated without a union. We concluded the negotiations, although it was tough".