French workers block world's biggest Nutella factory
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}FILE - In this June 18 2010 file photo,a bartender spreads Nutella on a crepe in a creperie in Rome. French workers frustrated over salary negotiations are blocking the world's biggest Nutella factory. Tensions are mounting at the site in Villers-Ecalles in Normandy, where activists from the Workers' Force union have been blocking trucks from entering or leaving the factory for a week. (AP Photo/Alberto Pellaschiar, File)
French workers frustrated over salary negotiations are blocking the world's biggest Nutella factory.
Tensions are mounting at the site in Villers-Ecalles in Normandy, where activists from the Workers' Force union have been barring trucks from entering or leaving the factory for a week.
The site produces 600,000 jars of the chocolate and hazelnut spread every day.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}After six days of failed efforts to end the standoff, Nutella owner Ferrero on Monday started threatening fines for workers involved in the blockade, according to a company statement.
But that didn't deter unions, who say 160 of the factory's 350 workers are taking part in a walkout to demand 4.5% salary increases and better working conditions.
The company said it wants to resume dialogue. The next negotiation meeting is scheduled for June 13.