Flash Coffee Saga: Strike Claims, Outlet Shutdowns, and Salary Battle Unveiled

Flash Coffee, the renowned tech-enabled coffee start-up, finds itself embroiled in controversy as reports of a staff strike and the shutdown of all its outlets in Singapore come to light. The union representing food and beverage industry employees raises alarming concerns over unpaid salaries, Central Provident Fund contributions, and encashment for unused leave. Delve into the tumultuous circumstances surrounding Flash Coffee's sudden closure and the ensuing battle for justice, as we uncover the shocking truth behind the facade of this once-thriving coffee empire.

Flash Coffee denies staff strike and shuts all outlets in Singapore

Flash Coffee, a start-up in Singapore, has denied reports of a staff strike and has announced the closure of all 11 of its outlets in the country. Despite these developments, there are underlying concerns regarding wages and benefits owed to the workers.

Union reports owed salaries and termination of services for Flash Coffee workers

The Food, Drinks and Allied Workers Union (FDAWU) has reported that Flash Coffee has failed to fulfill its financial obligations toward its employees. The company has been placed on provisional liquidation, resulting in the termination of services for the workers.

Details of salaries owed and encashment for unused leave

According to FDAWU president Julie Cheong, workers were informed in a meeting that their salaries for the month of September, which constitutes 75% of their total wages, as well as payments for work completed until October 12th, remain outstanding. Additionally, there are pending encashments for the remaining unused leave days. These financial discrepancies have caused significant distress among the affected employees.

Union to assist affected members with salary-related claims

The FDAWU has pledged its support to the affected members by assisting them in the process of claiming their unpaid salaries. The union will utilize its resources and network to ensure that the workers receive the compensation they are owed.

Video circulating on TikTok shows claims of strike due to delayed salary payouts

A video shared on TikTok captures the closure of a Flash Coffee outlet with a poster reflecting the employees' dissatisfaction. The poster states that the staff has decided to initiate a strike due to several instances of delayed salary payouts. The video has gained attention, shedding light on the workers' plight.

Flash Coffee spokesperson denies staff strike and explains closure of outlets

A spokesperson for Flash Coffee has denied the existence of a staff strike, stating that the closure of all 11 outlets was the reason behind employees not reporting to work. The spokesperson clarified that most of the staff at the company's Singapore head office have been offered alternative roles either in other markets or with the regional team, aiming to mitigate the impact of the closures on the workforce.

Singapore unit of Flash Coffee files for voluntary winding-up and provisional liquidation

The Singapore unit of Flash Coffee, led by co-founders David Brunier and Sebastian Hannecker, has filed for voluntary winding-up due to financial liabilities. As a result, the company has been placed under provisional liquidation. BDO Advisory has been appointed as the liquidator to oversee the winding-up process.

Flash Coffee maintains commitment to serving quality coffee across Asia

Despite the challenges faced by the closure of its outlets in Singapore, Flash Coffee remains dedicated to its mission of delivering high-quality coffee across Asia. The company expressed its gratitude to its loyal customers in Singapore and highlighted its successful market presence in Indonesia, Thailand, Hong Kong, and South Korea. Flash Coffee aims to further expand its business sustainably in the long term.

Seeking Justice and Reimagining the Future of Flash Coffee

As Flash Coffee grapples with allegations of unpaid salaries and the closure of its outlets, the plight of its affected workers serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the workforce in the food and beverage industry. The fight for fair treatment and just compensation continues, echoing the broader concerns of workers worldwide. Let this be a clarion call to support and uplift those who toil tirelessly behind the scenes. Together, we can reshape the coffee culture, ensuring that every cup brewed is accompanied by an unwavering commitment to the well-being and dignity of those who make the perfect blend possible.