SasaTech Factory Reaches First Collective Labor Agreement Amid Northern Conflict
SasaTech, a factory located in the Dalton Industrial Park near the Lebanese border, has finalized its first-ever collective labor agreement following lengthy negotiations conducted amidst the ongoing conflict in northern Israel. The agreement, which covers approximately 100 employees and is valid until 2028, aims to provide significant benefits and secure labor relations.
The new contract includes cumulative salary increases of about 10% over the next three years, a study fund, enhanced welfare budgets, and medical insurance for employees and their families. It also introduces various bonuses and gift vouchers for family events.
In recognition of their dedication during the conflict, SasaTech's management has awarded a "war bonus" totaling hundreds of thousands of shekels, amounting to over 5,000 shekels per employee. Additionally, a sum of 350,000 shekels, previously awarded to the General Workers' Union in a legal proceeding during the initial unionization phase, will be distributed to the employees as a further bonus. The agreement also stipulates that employees will receive a monthly basket of company products valued at hundreds of shekels.
SasaTech, part of the Sheniv group, manufactures cleaning, disinfection, and maintenance products for both private and institutional markets in Israel. The factory is a key employer in the Upper Galilee region.
Union representatives expressed satisfaction with the agreement, highlighting the challenges faced during negotiations due to the security situation. Yona Partok, chairman of the Upper Galilee region of the Histadrut labor federation, noted the development of trust and mutual respect between the parties. Aviv Azouz, secretary of the professional union in the region, who also served in reserve duty during this period, emphasized the importance of finalizing the agreement despite the security realities. Uri Beitan, chairman of the workers' committee, described SasaTech as a "family" and expressed pride in representing the employees.
