Supermarket sector in Santa Catarina warns of rising costs due to labor changes

Supermarket operators in Santa Catarina are expressing concern over the end of the 6x1 work schedule, following Constitutional Amendment No. 141/2026. The amendment mandates the end of the 6x1 scale and a gradual reduction of the weekly workweek to 40 hours.

Industry estimates suggest that operational costs could rise between 15% and 30%, depending on the size of the establishment. According to the Santa Catarina Association of Supermarkets (ACATS), larger companies may see personnel costs increase by 17% to 20%, while smaller neighborhood supermarkets could face increases of up to 30%.

Monique Pizzetti, president of ACATS, stated that while the association recognizes the importance of increasing worker rest periods, the implementation may impact service hours and product prices. There are also concerns regarding labor shortages and the ability of smaller retailers to absorb these additional expenses.