The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) is due to meet Cost Pro Supermarket employees on Friday following the company’s sudden closure, as workers seek answers about their jobs and outstanding payments.

ABWU General Secretary David Massiah and President Kem Riley visited the supermarket on Thursday evening after staff were informed that the business had closed with immediate effect. The union says it will advise employees on their legal rights and the next steps.

Workers received termination letters dated 9 July, stating that the supermarket had permanently ceased operations and that all positions had become redundant.

Management said employees’ final day of work was Thursday and that payroll records would be reviewed to calculate outstanding wages, accrued vacation pay, notice pay where applicable, and severance in line with Antigua and Barbuda’s labour laws. Staff were told they would receive payment statements by 17 July and were asked to return company property.

However, employees say they remain uncertain about whether they will receive the money owed to them, including wages and severance benefits. Many fear the closure has left them facing immediate financial hardship.

Unverified claims have also circulated among workers that the company’s owner may be preparing to leave Antigua and Barbuda. Those allegations have not been independently confirmed.

The reason for Cost Pro’s closure has not been publicly disclosed. Friday’s meeting is expected to focus on safeguarding workers’ rights and exploring legal and industrial options to recover any outstanding payments.

Source: Antigua News Room Cost Pro workers to meet union after sudden supermarket closure.