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15 July, 2025In May, more than 1,400 workers were reportedly dismissed via a WhatsApp message when UK retailer Next closed its wholly owned factory in Sri Lanka without proper notice. Two months on, the affected workers and their union remain determined to challenge what they call an unlawful and irresponsible closure. Those who refused to sign resignation letters are now unemployed while their case is heard by the Department of Labour’s Employment Unit. Many face severe hardship during Sri Lanka’s economic crisis, with some skipping meals daily.
In response, the union has established a solidarity kitchen at its Katunayake office, providing rations so affected workers can cook for themselves. Branch unions have contributed to sustaining this effort for nearly two months, demonstrating strong worker-to-worker solidarity during this crisis.
At a meeting on 13 July, union members paid tribute to those leading the fight against Next, despite their vulnerable position. They described their campaign’s purpose as preventing others from becoming “another Next worker”, a call for brands, employers and the government to stop unlawful closures and ensure job security in Sri Lanka’s Free Trade Zones.
The union, IndustriALL affiliate Free Trade Zones and General Services Employees Union (FTZ&GSEU), argues that Next’s decision violates Sri Lankan law and breaches the CBA it signed in 2021 and renewed in 2023. According to the union, this is the only CBA currently in force in the country’s entire apparel industry. Union leaders say Next must be held accountable for these actions, especially as Sri Lanka struggles with a severe socio-economic crisis and the impact of US tariff changes hitting the apparel sector.
Says IndustriALL general secretary Atle Høie:
“These workers are showing extraordinary courage and solidarity in the face of exploitation. Next must honour its commitments and respect workers’ rights, including collective bargaining agreements. We call on Next to immediately address this injustice and ensure decent, secure employment for all.”