Machinists Union Quarrels With IKEA-Owned Factory

from National Public Radio

Robert Siegel follows up on the April news that the International Trade Union Confederation representing 175 million workers in 151 countries and territories expressed alarm over labor practices by the furniture giant IKEA in Danville, Va. The labor organization claims that, unlike its plants in Sweden where workers enjoy high wages and five weeks annual leave, Danville workers get two weeks and much lower pay. Some of the Virginia plant's 335 workers are trying to form a union, and workers are not allowed to join the union of their choice. Robert visits the plant to see if those conditions — and other complaints — are still valid in the three years since the operation in Danville began.

Broadcast Dates

• All Things Considered, June 17, 2011