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Cava producer Freixenet reaches deal with unions over dry spell procedures

Spanish cava producer Freixenet said on Saturday it has actually reached a deal with unions over its proposal to present a shorttime work plan for almost 80% of its labor force due to a drought.

The Catalonia-based business stated 615 employees will have their working hours decreased in between 20% and 50% from May 13 till the end of the year.

It stated the decision was made following talks with unions representing the employees about how to deal with a drought in the area which is affecting grape growing and red wine production.

The strength of the step will vary depending on the duration of the year and the advancement of the drought, the business said in a declaration.

Vineyards throughout Catalonia's distinguished Penedes cava-producing region are so parched that the roots of 30-year-old vines have passed away, leaving shriveled red and green grapes suffering under the extreme sun.

Workers will be compensated with additional aid to protect certain groups, additional pays and getaways, it included.

A similar strategy announced in April by the company was turned down by the Catalan federal government.

Germany's family-owned Oetker Group acquired 50.7 percent of Freixenet in 2018 and signed a cooperation arrangement with the staying investors.

(source: Reuters)