World's Largest Nutella Factory Blocked by French Protesters

The world's largest Nutella factory in France has been brought to a standstill after workers there blocked the plant over salary negotiations according to multiple reports.

Activists with the Workers' Force Union have prevented trucks from entering or leaving the factory that produces 600,000 jars of the chocolate/hazelnut spread every day. The factory responsible for more than a quarter of the world's Nutella production has halted production of the treat enjoyed by people all over the world.

Ferrero SpA, which owns the Nutella brand, threatened to fine those workers who have become involved in the blockade of their factory in Villers-Ecalles in Normandy, but that hasn't discouraged the unions. Workers' Force says 160 of the plant's 350 workers have joined them in demanding a 4.5% salary bump, a one-time 900-Euro bonus, and improved working conditions.

"It's war, anger is mounting," union activist Fabien Lacabanne said in a statement.

Ferraro SpA says they've agreed to increase the lowest workers pay by 1.7% and one-time bonuses that would range between 0 and 400-euros. However, unions fired back, saying that's not enough of a raise given living costs. The unions have also complained about the factory and its deteriating conditions, as well as an increased pressure from management for workers to be more productive.

Ferraro says they want to resume negotiations with the Union, but won't until the workers cease blocking trucking from entering or leaving the factory. The next negotiation meeting has been scheduled for June 13.

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