In the past and at its peak, Bata employed 5 000 people. Today it employs only 1 500. Bata used to produce 10 million shoes annually, but output has dropped to only one million.
The workers who are paid an average of $200 a month, last week downed tools demanding salaries that are in line with the poverty datum line pegged at $502.
Managing Director Lewis Pintotold The Zimbabwean this week that production at the once vibrant, biggest employer in Gweru had gone to the dogs.
“We need to be clear on the country’s indigenisation policy and if it means we are going to lose management of the company then we are stuck. We want to invest in the country but the policies should be clear. We need to be clear on that point,” Pinto said.
Bata is established in six countries in Africa. The company’s stakeholders have for some time now expressed reservations on the indigenisation policies being spearheaded by Zanu (PF), with Savior Kasukuwere being the frontman.
The MDC and financial analysts have repeatedly warned that the country must come up with friendly policies that do not scare away investors.
Post published in: Business