Owens-Illinois Glass Plant Workers Protest Imminent Closure – Urgent Breaking News
Vergèze, France – A wave of anger is sweeping through the Owens-Illinois (OI) glass plant in Vergèze, France, as employees voice their outrage over a planned closure announced as part of a company-wide restructuring. Workers initiated a protest this Thursday, September 25th, dramatically illustrating their fears for the future, and demanding a fairer deal. This is a developing story, and Archyde is bringing you the latest updates as they unfold. This situation highlights a growing trend in European manufacturing, where companies are streamlining operations, often at the expense of local jobs.
Workers demonstrate at the Owens-Illinois plant in Vergèze, France, on September 25th. (Image credit: [Source/Photographer])
Burning Pallets and Rising Anger: A Last Stand for Vergèze
The protest began this morning with employees burning pallets outside the factory, sending plumes of black smoke into the sky – a stark visual representation of their frustration. Union representative Bruno Santiago expressed the workers’ sentiment, stating, “It was not we who decided to break the toy and put everyone unemployed!” Approximately 100 of the plant’s 164 remaining employees participated in the demonstration, organized by the inter-union collective.
The dispute centers around a Plan de Sauvegarde de l’Emploi (PSE) – a job safeguard plan – implemented by Owens-Illinois across France. The Vergèze site is facing complete closure, a decision workers believe is driven by profit margins rather than financial necessity. “We are not making enough benefits, not because we are bankrupt!” Santiago emphasized, underscoring the workers’ belief that the plant remains viable.
Negotiations Stall: A Disappointing Offer
Recent negotiations with management, held in Lyon on Tuesday, yielded minimal concessions. Workers requested an extension of reclassification leave – time to find new employment – from 12 months to 24 months, recognizing the specialized skills of the workforce. Many employees have spent their entire careers at the glass plant. Management offered only 13 months, a gesture Santiago described as dismissive.
Similarly, a proposed increase in the training budget, from €11,000 to €17,000, was seen as insufficient. The fate of a potential bonus remains uncertain, with workers warned not to expect a substantial amount. These incremental offers have only fueled the growing resentment.
The Future of Glass Manufacturing in France: A Broader Context
The situation at Owens-Illinois reflects a wider trend in the European glass manufacturing sector. Increased competition from global markets, rising energy costs, and shifting consumer preferences are putting pressure on traditional glass plants. Companies are increasingly focused on automation and consolidation to remain competitive. This often leads to plant closures and job losses in regions heavily reliant on manufacturing. Understanding the European Container Glass Federation (FEVE) and its initiatives can provide further insight into the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.
The closure of the Vergèze plant will not only impact the 164 employees and their families but also the local economy. The plant has been a significant employer in the region for decades. The long-term consequences of this closure could include a decline in local businesses and a loss of skilled labor.
With the deadline for finalizing the PSE negotiations set for October 31st, and the official closure date still unknown, tensions are running high. Santiago fears that as time passes, the workers’ frustration may escalate into more disruptive action. The situation remains fluid, and Archyde will continue to provide updates as this breaking news story develops. Stay tuned to Archyde.com for the latest on this and other important news events. For readers interested in learning more about labor rights and worker protections in France, resources are available through the French Ministry of Labour.
