Varteks Workers’ Strike Begins Due to Unpaid Wages

Varaždin, May 6, 2024 – Today, the strike of Varteks d.d. workers was initiated by the Independent Workers’ Union of Varteks due to the non-payment of part of the February salary and the entire March salary. The strike will continue until the wages are paid.

Press Conference

At the press conference in front of the factory, URSH President Tomislav Rajković stated that it is known that Varteks has been in a difficult situation for a long time, but in the 105-year history of the company, there have been crisis moments that ended positively and production continued.

Rajković emphasized that production will not resume until the overdue wages are paid. He added that the workers and the company itself have become hostages of their own assets that large capitalists want to acquire at the lowest possible price.

Management’s Responsibility

Rajković blamed the poor management of the company by previous administrations, but especially the current board member Jelena Bošnjak, for Varteks’ dire situation. He pointed out that since her arrival, nothing has been done to improve the situation and that she is pursuing a business policy that does not align with the company’s needs.

He added that Bošnjak is often absent from Varteks during working hours because she is engaged in private business, which is why she no longer has the workers’ trust. The union and workers demand her departure and the appointment of a new management by the owners.

Possible Solution

Rajković stated that the union sees a solution in the creditors’ agreement regarding the sale of Varteks’ inactive assets, with part of the funds going to the company to resume production.

Faith in the Future

The workers are convinced that Varteks can once again become what it once was – a flagship of the Croatian textile industry. They emphasize that they are ready to fight for the company’s survival and the preservation of their jobs.