Labor Prosecutors Sue RedeMiX Over Numbered Uniforms That May Pressure Workers

Overview

• The Ministry of Labor Prosecutors (MPT) filed a precautionary lawsuit on Friday asking the Labor Court to suspend the use of employee shirts bearing the number 22 and to impose neutral uniforms until the election is over.
• In its petition the MPT also asked the court to require an internal company notice guaranteeing workers' freedom of political orientation, to ensure staff scheduled to vote have time to do so, and to set a minimum daily fine of R$50,000 for breaches.
• The investigation began after complaints and photographs were submitted showing staff wearing the number in a Salvador store, and the case grew after local musicians shared images and videos on social media.
• RedeMiX says the number refers to the chain's anniversary and is part of a company campaign, and the company has told reporters it had not yet been formally notified of the suit.
• The Labor Court will now review the MPT's request and the agency warned it may file a later public civil suit seeking collective moral damages if the alleged electoral pressure is confirmed.