In a recent development, the employees of JSW, a major coal company in Poland, participated in a referendum that resulted in over 97% support for a deal aimed at stabilizing the company's finances. This agreement is expected to create savings of approximately 1.2 billion PLN over the next two years, providing a critical lifeline for the company's continued operations. It was finalized and signed on February 13, after discussions about its specifics took place on that same day.

The key components of the agreement include the suspension of certain collective agreement provisions as well as internal regulations. Notably, the right to a 14th salary for the year 2026 has been suspended, and the payment schedule for the 14th salary for 2025 has been postponed to 2027. Additionally, the traditional 'barbórka' bonus will now be distributed in installments for several years, impacting the workforce but necessary for securing the company's financial future.

This decision highlights the challenges facing the coal industry in Poland, where companies like JSW are navigating financial pressures exacerbated by global energy market shifts. The agreement reflects a broader trend of negotiating labor terms in response to economic necessities, and it underscores the importance of compromise within labor relations to ensure the viability of key industries amidst changing market demands.