King workers to strike in Sweden following rejection of collective bargaining agreement

Swedish unions Unionen and Sveriges Ingenjörer have notified King of an impending strike after the company rejected a proposed collective bargaining agreement in September. Negotiations are currently underway. If an agreement cannot be reached, the strike is set to commence on September 25. Additional unions Naturvetarna, DIK, and Akademikerförfédrationen SSR have also declared support for the strike.

Unionen representatives stated that their King workers are seeking improved terms regarding workplace conditions, job security, pensions, insurance, working hours, and influence over work-related matters. A collective agreement provides greater security in the Swedish labor market. King's COO Ulrika Höjgaård countered that the company provides fair and competitive employment terms, and her company is confident its benefits align with or surpass those offered under a collective bargaining agreement.

King maintains a constructive dialogue with union representatives, despite the decision not to enter into a CBA, and remains committed to ongoing transparent communication regarding employee concerns. King president Todd Green emphasized that the current benefits package is superior, including enhanced pension, long-term sick pay, private healthcare, and parental leave.

Green stated that while a CBA would necessitate structural changes that could negatively impact employees, it does not imply a lack of respect for trade unions or the Swedish labor model. King will continue to engage with trade unions respectfully and constructively while consulting them as required.