...BESTSELLER is aware of the case and has been engaged with the GLU, as well as organisations including Labour Behind the Label and Clean Clothes Campaign. We, however, refute your allegation that BESTSELLER has failed to ensure issues are resolved in a timely manner and Freedom of Association is respected.

The allegations of workplace grievances mentioned in your email have been thoroughly investigated through unannounced on-site investigations and involving interviews with employees, as per our standard operating procedures regarding CoC violations. The results of these investigations were shared with SAPL’s management team as well as the GLU. The CoC violations identified were addressed, as per a Corrective Action Plan. Results of the activities under the Corrective Action plan has been shared with GLU.

Since then, BESTSELLER has taken consistent and proactive steps to help the two parties build constructive dialogue between GLU and SAPL. We have taken a proactive role in facilitating meetings between the GLU and the SAPL’s management. Our intervention has resulted in bimonthly meetings between the two parties, and development of constructive dialogue processes, such as sharing minutes and agendas ahead of meetings. Our local Social & Labour manager has also participated as an observer in the reinitiated meeting.

While SAPL has decided not to recognise the GLU as their sole collective bargaining partner at this point, we are satisfied that both GLU and SAPL are taking steps to rebuild constructive social dialogue, the foundation for effective Freedom of Association.

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