Refres Now S.A., the owner of Manaos drinks, has been ordered by the Mendoza Supreme Court to pay more than $800 million in compensation to a former employee who worked as a distributor between 2013 and 2022. This ruling comes amid discussions on labor reform in Argentina, highlighting ongoing issues within employer-employee relationships in the country. The company is also under scrutiny for alleged tax evasion, which adds to the complexity of the case and the owner's complaints.

The legal battle began when the former distributor filed a lawsuit claiming he was unjustly dismissed, faced irregularities in labor registration, and experienced illegal deductions from his pay. This case is reminiscent of other recent high-profile compensation cases in Argentina, such as those involving Piegari and Naranja Mandarina, suggesting a potential trend of increased accountability for companies regarding labor practices. The substantial financial penalty reflects the judiciary's stance on protecting workers' rights in the face of corporate misconduct.

This ruling not only impacts the involved company but also serves as a warning to other businesses in Argentina to adhere to labor laws and ethical practices. As the government pushes for labor reforms, cases like these could influence legislative measures and public perception of corporate responsibility. The involvement of questionable business practices and judicial decisions in labor disputes signals a critical moment for workers advocating for their rights in the marketplace.