HEMA signs Cambodia Agreement with IndustriALL Global Union

HEMA signs Cambodia Agreement to support collectively bargained wage increases and improved working conditions

By signing an agreement with IndustriALL Global Union, HEMA enables the implementation of collective bargaining agreements at factory level in Cambodia. The Collective Bargaining Agreements ensure higher wages for garment workers, improve working conditions, strengthen freedom of association and sound industrial relations, support dispute resolution and foster skills development. 

As a Supporter of ACT in Cambodia, HEMA joins a growing group of international brands and retailers who have signed legally binding agreements to support standardised collective bargaining agreements in Cambodia. 

HEMA (Hollandsche Eenheidsprijzen Maatschappij Amsterdam) is a Dutch-based variety retailer headquartered in Amsterdam. Established in 1926 as a fixed-price store, the company has evolved into a major European retail chain with a heavy emphasis on private-label consumer goods.

By becoming a Supporter, HEMA is contributing to tangible impact in-country, while supporting ILO-aligned best practice on wages, purchasing practices due diligence and meaningful stakeholder engagement.

Christina Hajagos-Clausen, Director TGSL IndustriALL Global Union commented: “Hema’s signing of the Cambodia Agreement is a major stride for wage increases and better working conditions in Cambodia. By joining other leading Signatory Brands, Hema supports the growing coverage of the nationally negotiated collective agreements – delivering real, immediate, and much-needed benefits for workers.”

In Cambodia, the ACT Supply Chain Industrial Relations framework brings together manufacturers, brands and trade unions to establish the industry’s first brand-supported collective bargaining agreements. In line with ILO recommendations and due diligence expectations on brands, this approach delivers tangible wage increases, fosters sound industrial relations and engenders productivity growth.

Mira Neumaier, ACT’s Executive Director, commented: “Hema is showing that support for the ACT Cambodia Programme is not limited to ACT members. This is an important signal that brands sourcing from Cambodia can join our efforts to enable tangible, collectively bargained wage increases, stronger industrial relations and more responsible purchasing practices.”