Alpura Faces Potential Strike Over Labor Disputes

Grupo Alpura is in negotiations with labor unions to avert a potential strike scheduled for Aug. 4, reports Expansión, following allegations of labor abuse at its Cuautitlan Izcalli plant in the State of Mexico. The National Union of Food Industry Workers (UNTIA) issued the strike notice after a July 8 protest at the Cuautitlán Izcalli plant. Workers accused the company of contract violations, harassment, unfair charges for unsold products, unpaid overtime, denied vacations, and poor working conditions, including missing uniforms and protective gear.

Alpura issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to dialogue and the protection of labor rights, expressing hope that a resolution will be reached through mutual understanding and legal processes. “We believe it is possible to find solutions that balance the well-being of our employees with the continuity of operations,” the company said.

Founded in 1970, Alpura is one of Mexico’s major dairy producers, employing over 10,000 people across its facilities in the State of Mexico, Chihuahua, and San Luis Potosi. The company has said that maintaining stable operations is a priority, especially in light of its role in the national dairy supply chain.

The Rural and Working Revolutionary Confederation (CROC) has added pressure by warning that if a wage agreement is not reached, the strike will proceed, potentially halting Alpura’s production. CROC’s demands include a salary increase and improved working conditions in response to inflation and the importance of dairy workers in national food production. CROC leadership also reported that approximately 60 unionized workers in Leon have been detained at the facility for refusing to accept wage deductions related to product “shrinkage.” Eighteen employees were reportedly dismissed for refusing to pay for returned dairy products, with allegations of intimidation by management.

According to union officials, workers are not refusing to work but are protesting conditions they describe as coercive, with daily deductions between MX$250 (US$13.41) and MX$420 (US$22.54). Reports indicate that workers are being pressured to sign documents acknowledging job abandonment under threat of dismissal, despite being present on-site.