The discussion about the end of the 6×1 scale continues to generate concern in the production sector. In an interview with CNN Moneythe president of Apas (Associação Paulista de Supermercados), Erlon Ortega, stated that the reduction in working hours could make products more expensive and worsen the labor shortage already faced by the segment.
According to him, supermarkets in São Paulo have around 35 thousand open positions and, if the proposal is approved along the lines discussed in the Chamber of Deputies, the demand for workers would increase by at least 10%.
“Firstly, there is no such workforce. And, secondly, the impact it would have on the cost of living for all Brazilians”, said Ortega.
Apas estimates that the change could increase prices by between 8% and 10%, while other sectors of the economy would face even greater adjustments. Ortega also cited research that shows a drop in popular support for the proposal, which, in his assessment, reflects the perception of the costs involved.
“The population understands that this has a cost and we need modernity through freedom in work relationships,” he stated.
As an alternative, the director defended the approval of PEC 12, currently being processed in the Senate, which provides for greater flexibility in labor relations.
For Ortega, the proposal especially caters to younger workers — who represent around a third of the workforce in the supermarket sector — and who seek to combine formal employment, studies, app-based work and entrepreneurship.
He also highlighted that a manifesto signed by more than 3 thousand entities and a formal request from mayors across the country were sent to the Senate, highlighting the scope of concern with the issue.
“There is no strong worker with a weak company, nor a strong company with a weak worker”, concluded the president of Apas.
