Jack’s Tells: We Had No Choice Over Jobs

Termination letters issued to 500 workers of Jack’s of Fiji Group of Companies was owed to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Company chief executive officer Bhavin Khatri said business would never be the same even when the economic situation returned to some semblance of normality.

“With the destruction already done, we are not looking at returning to our usual business in the foreseeable future.”

The group, comprising nine subsidiaries, is synonymous with tourism with chain stores Fiji wide.

Subsidiaries

Mr Khatri said the most affected subsidiaries in the face of coronavirus were Jack’s Retail Limited, Jack’s Garments Limited, Jack’s Restaurant Limited, Jack’s Handicrafts (Properties) Limited, Hard Rock Cafe Fiji, Jack’s Retail (PNG) Limited and Oasis Spa (Fiji) Limited.

The group’s other subsidiaries, - Jack’s Manufacturing Limited, Jack’s Farm Limited and Jack’s Retail (Aust) Pty Limited - were spared the full brunt of the pandemic, he said.

Mr Khatri said the termination notice provided 30 days consultation period.

“Actual termination will take effect on May 19, 2020, which is clearly specified in the letter issued to staff.”

Mr Khatri said the past month was spent telling employees about the severity of the impact of coronavirus on the business.

“This was also communicated with Ministry of Labour.”

Jack’s group employs 900 people.

Mr Khatri said the economic situation continued to change rapidly.

“It is difficult to strategise any long term business plan.” What are their plans for remaining stock and floor space?

Labour minister Parveen Bala could not be reached for comment.

Feedback: charles.chambers@fijisun.com.fj