Twelve Cupcakes did not give advance notice to union on liquidation, about 80 workers affected

Following the news of local bakery Twelve Cupcakes' closure, the Food, Drinks and Allied Workers Union (FDAWU) said it was only informed about the closure on the same day as the company’s announcement to its workers.

The union was informed on Oct. 29 by the bakery on its "sudden decision" to commence provisional liquidation of its Singapore operations and exit the Singapore market, it said in a media release.

The bakery had put up a notice on its website, stating that it has been placed under provisional liquidation with effect from Oct. 29.

FDAWU stated its strong objection to the business owner’s "complete lack of prior consultation and advance notice of their decision".

The "abrupt" move has created "significant uncertainty and distress" for about 80 affected workers, including rank-and-file workers, executives and managers, it said.

Uncertainty and distress for workers

While Twelve Cupcakes is a unionised company under FDAWU, it did not engage the union early to discuss alternatives or support measures for its workers, FDAWU claimed.

"While the business owner's final decision may have been a commercial one, its execution was not only irresponsible but also lacked due process," it said.

The union called out the business owner for failing to "consider the human consequences of the closure".

Workers are now left struggling to secure alternative employment on short notice, as well as dealing with uncertainty regarding their livelihoods and the payments owed to them.

Union supporting affected workers

FDAWU General Secretary Sankaradass said that the union has immediately mobilised their team to be on the ground to support affected members and workers to ensure they receive accurate information and guidance.

"We have also called on the appointed liquidator to collaborate with the union so that benefits under the collective agreement are duly considered as part of the workers’ preferential claims.

"Our priority is to safeguard our members’ livelihoods and ensure they are treated fairly and in a timely manner throughout this transition. We will continue to stand alongside our members during this difficult period," he said.

Affected workers may approach FDAWU at 6737 6088 (working hours) or email [email protected] for assistance.

Top photos by Mothership