Betko Fresh Produce workers end strike in Villiersdorp

More than 250 workers at Betko Fresh Produce in Villiersdorp returned to work on Thursday following an agreement between the company and the National Union for All Sectors (NUFAS) to end a strike.

The strike, which began on Monday, was driven by demands for a 10% pay increase, bonuses, improved employment security, and changes to the provident fund. NUFAS president Mzikayise Mawuwa stated the union accepted the company’s offer to avoid potential violence following reports of worker intimidation.

Under the agreement, Betko will terminate its contract with the current provident fund and refund workers, and implement a long-service award system. While the union accepted the existing 5% wage increase from September 2025, NUFAS intends to table new demands for the next financial year.

A dispute regarding the union's bargaining power remains. While NUFAS seeks to negotiate, company labour consultant Faizel Martin noted that NUFAS has remained a minority union with approximately 28% membership since its recognition in 2025.