A furniture chain employee has expressed personal guilt over the sudden bankruptcy of the companies Sotka and Asko, which employed approximately 600 people.
The furniture chain Indoor Group, which owns Sotka and Asko, filed for bankruptcy on Monday, leading to the sudden closure of the stores by Tuesday. This unexpected turn of events left employees bewildered, some of whom continued their regular work routines just hours before the closures. A particular employee shared their experience of initially serving customers before receiving notification that they were no longer needed at work, indicating the shock that many felt as the bankruptcy progressed rapidly after media reports linked to the insolvency emerged in late January.
Asko's furniture factory Insofa, also involved in the bankruptcy process, contributed to the significant employment drop, as the companies together directly employed about 600 staff. Workers had been managing their duties despite the looming financial crisis, illustrating the uncertainty and lack of communication from the management until the very last moments. Another employee, who wishes to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity of the situation, acknowledged the emotional toll this unexpected closure has had on him and his colleagues.
The rapid closure and its aftermath have not only affected those employed but also have significant implications for the local economy, as well as customer relations, given that many patrons were made aware of the situation only during the final days of operation. This situation raises critical concerns about job security in the retail sector and the responsibilities of management in communicating potential financial troubles to their employees and clientele in a timely manner.
