DELHAIZE: We will continue with the investments in Serbia

Serbia for Delhaize Group is a strategic market with extreme developmental potential and therefore the company will continue investing in constant development of all business segments, the company said for Tanjug.

When asked whether the restructuring plan for Belgium will have any kind of influence to business activities in Serbia and whether they are planning store shut down or layoffs, the Delhaize company answered that by the end of November they expect opening of distribution center in Stara Pazova where they poured EUR 50m.

- We expect that this distribution center will benefit to the company itself, our suppliers as well as the entire Serbian economy – Delhaize company says, adding they are planning expansion of business network and promotion of working and life conditions for their employees as well as experience of shopping for its customers.

Delhaize Belgium regrets the event in the last week but it estimated positively initiation of the negotiations with the employees so that solution for the problematic situation would emerge. The staff strike in Belgium trade chain Delhaize which started October 21 after the meeting with the company management which committed to rephrase the proposal which will be adapted to economic plan for the workers”.

The Delhaize headquarters in June announced the company restructuring plan, 2.500 layoffs and shut down of 14 out of 138 shops which made the employees go on strike last week. In Brussels and Valona region, 67 supermarkets were closed and 35 in Flandreau.

After announced layoffs and facilities shut down, news on salary cuts of at least EUR 90 arrived which additionally provoked the staff. The company management claims the savings steps are essential to ensure the company survival.