The social conflict at DS Smith's plants in France took on significant proportions on September 23, 2024, with a strike call followed by a large proportion of employees. The strike came against a backdrop of tension between employees and management over a number of issues relating to working conditions and compensation.
The strikers' main demand is for a 2,500 euro sharing bonus, reflecting a desire to redistribute profits within the DS Smith Group. The employees feel that their efforts are not sufficiently valued, particularly in comparison with the profits made by the company.
"We're asking for this bonus in recognition of the year's exceptional results," explained Emmanuel Robin, CGT union delegate.
In addition to the bonus, the unions are demanding a re-evaluation of job classifications. DS Smith employees feel that job descriptions no longer reflect the reality of the tasks performed, particularly with technological developments having redefined certain functions. This has led to a feeling of injustice in career progression and pay.
The impact of the International Paper takeover: Uncertainty for the future
The context of this industrial action is also marked by the pending takeover of DS Smith by the American group International Paper. This operation is causing great concern among employees, who fear restructuring and even the closure of certain sites. Internal competition could be exacerbated, affecting not only jobs but also the very organization of production. Read International Paper moves ahead with acquisition of DS Smith
The question of compensation harmonization: A national issue
The strikers are also calling for compensation to be harmonized between DS Smith sites in France. This demand is part of a desire for fairness between employees working in regions where the cost of living and working conditions can vary.
Lastly, the revision of the calculation of the seniority bonus is one of the unions' priorities. Employees would like this bonus to be calculated on actual salaries, rather than on a theoretical basis that does not include certain variable remunerations.
