Škoda’s main union is threatening a “massive” strike next week in protest at what it views as an inadequate pay offer from the Czech company.
The KOVO labour body represents more than two thirds of Škoda’s 26,000-strong workforce across three sites in the Czech Republic and although the number of staff who will walk out on 15 April next week for a symbolic hour is unclear, the union is expecting strong support.
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“It should be really massive,” a reliable source in the Czech Republic told just-auto. “The movement will initiate after that further collective bargaining. There was no agreement – that is why we are striking.
“We are asking for 6.5% – the last possibility given was 3% – it could and should be more because the economic results… and economic conditions are up to date fantastic.
The one hour walkout will take place across Skoda’s Czech Republic plants at 13:45 next week.
In February, Škoda’s worldwide deliveries increased 8.3% year on year to 76,000 vehicles, a record for the month.
Sales of the redesigned Fabia, introduced at the end of 2014, rose 11.7% in Western Europe and 32.7% in central Europe but fell 16.7% worldwide.
“Škoda has made an excellent start to the year after a record-breaking 2014,” said sales and marketing chief, Werner Eichhorn.
“The first two months have highlighted the brand’s positive momentum.”
Škoda in the Czech Republic was not immediately available for comment.
