Industrial Unrest at BICO in Barbados: Implications for Employees and the Company's Future
BICO Ltd., a name synonymous with frozen treats in Barbados, has experienced significant challenges over the years. These include a devastating factory fire, the impact of globalization, and rising operational costs. However, industrial unrest, particularly between employees and management, has become a recurring issue that threatens both employee satisfaction and the company's continuity. Historical Context and Recurring Issues BICO's employees have been grappling with wage stagnation and inadequate working conditions for years. The most recent strike, led by the Barbados Workers’ Union (BWU), highlights deep-rooted dissatisfaction. Since 2017, wage negotiations have been deadlocked, with employees experiencing no wage increases since 2015. Additionally, deteriorating health and safety standards—such as inadequate restroom facilities and lack of industrial cleaning—have further exacerbated employee grievances. The situation escalated when the Fair Trading Commission (FTC) bl...