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4 April, 2025On 20 March 2025, union leaders from Europe, the U.S. and South America met under IndustriALL Global Union to address urgent issues facing O-I Glass workers.
European Works Council secretary Vincenzo Guzzo Menzo, representing 10 European countries, outlined key concerns. Health and safety remain central, with uneven standards across plants. For instance, one shared a video with the company showing water leaking onto workers and electrical equipment during a thunderstorm, highlighting the need for uniform safety protocols.
Heat stress is another major concern. Solar radiation, combined with furnace heat, creates dangerous conditions. While some sites have cooling booths, they are not widespread.
Workers have requested alternatives like cooling jackets, with little success.
The Brazilian glassworkers’ union Sindicato dos Vidreiros denounced fraudulent practices in the occupational health procedures at Owens Illinois SP. According to the union the company has been reported to the ministry of labour for failing to recognize occupational diseases.
Wider industry challenges were also discussed, including ongoing impacts of COVID-19, inflation, and energy price spikes linked to geopolitical conflicts like the war in Ukraine. While O-I remains a leader in container glass, demand has declined due to competition from alternative packaging and reduced alcohol consumption.
Unions strongly criticized O-I’s global ‘Fit to Win’ cost-cutting initiative, which aims to save US$300 million. It has led to around 1,500 layoffs and eight furnace closures in 2024. The Bellavista plant in Callao, Peru, closed in August 2024, with 110 workers losing jobs.
Although some were offered positions at the Lurín factory in Lima, union FETRIMAP claims legal procedures were not followed. In Spain, 168 workers were also made redundant after the Barcelona plant’s closure.
Participants resolved to pressure company management for fair solutions, challenge the impact of 'Fit to Win' and strengthen global union coordination.
Alex Ivanou, IndustriALL’s materials director, closed the meeting, affirming solidarity:
“In these difficult times, IndustriALL stands firmly with O-I workers. Your courage is the foundation of a fairer future. We will not back down in the fight for dignity, safety and security on the job.”