"Swedish Tech companies don't understand the value of CBA"

In the online magazine Computer Sweden, we recently argued that Swedish tech companies don’t understand the advantage of a collective agreement, not only in times of change, but also in terms of becoming a more attractive employer.

The background to the article is that Unionen is proceeding with a dispute against online payment provider Klarna. The case with Klarna shows that there is a great deal of ignorance about the role of a union, collective agreements and what negotiating and cooperating with the union entails.

There is a great deal of ignorance about the role of a union, collective agreements and what negotiating and cooperating with the unions entails.

In signing a collective agreement, employees are given a package that, amongst other things, ensures that important aspects such as wages, working conditions and notice periods are aligned with those in the industry. And the regulations are negotiated by employers’ associations and trade unions that are already active in the industry.

A collective agreement shows that a company is serious and is investing in people long-term, which is useful when competing for new staff and in dealings with other businesses. Collective agreements are also mandatory in various types of procurement processes – not only by the government, councils and municipalities, but also by many companies.

The employees’ ability to influence the workplace is important, and with a collective agreement comes greater transparency. This gives the employees the opportunity to influence a situation in the event of, for example, organisational changes.

Employees participating in, and influencing the company they work for is also beneficial for the work environment. With collective agreements in place, everyone knows the score which means there is more time for both employer and employees to focus on running the business.

With collective agreements in place, everyone knows the score which means there is more time for both employer and employees to focus on running the business.

Safety and stability in the storm

Many companies within the tech industry seem to be looking at a shaky future, and more face the threat of downsizing. Collective agreements provide support when staff who are made redundant need to adapt to new situations. In the case of staff cuts, it is easier to act correctly with a collective agreement in place.

Swedish tech companies are leaders in new technology. However, their view of the Swedish labour market model requires an update, with the need for collective agreements!

Martin Linder
President