Employees at the trendy second-hand store Arkivet in Sweden are raising alarms about a toxic work environment where favoritism and discriminatory practices against employees are commonplace.
Arkivet, a trendy second-hand retail store in Sweden known for its luxury brands, is facing serious allegations from current and former employees regarding an unhealthy work environment. These concerns include inappropriate comments from high-level managers regarding employees' appearances and favoritism towards 'good-looking and slim girls'. Additionally, several cases of exclusion and dismissals based on perceived 'vibes' have been reported, indicating a troubling culture within the workplace.
The retail chain has enjoyed significant success, achieving a record turnover of 52.7 million in 2024, with plans to expand internationally according to CEO Martin Hallander. However, the positive financial results contrast starkly with the testimonies of eleven employees who have reported ongoing serious issues for several years. Aftonbladet, the Swedish news outlet, has interviewed these workers, many of whom are unwilling to speak publicly due to fear of repercussions.
As Arkivet sets its sights on future growth, it must address these alarming accusations to ensure a healthy work environment for its employees. Failure to tackle these issues could lead to reputational damage and hinder future expansion plans, highlighting the imperative for companies to prioritize worker welfare in their pursuit of success.
