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Sklavenitis Cyprus Sets A New Standard For Employee-Centric Benefits

Investing In Human Capital

In a bold move that underscores the growing importance of human capital in today’s business landscape, Sklavenitis Cyprus has taken innovative steps to ensure its workforce is both valued and supported. The supermarket chain has introduced a policy to pay a 14th salary to all employees—including those from Papantoniou Supermarkets—cementing its status as the sole retailer in Cyprus to implement such a comprehensive benefit.

A Significant Investment In People

This initiative is far from symbolic. With an estimated total cost of €2 million, it represents a committed investment in the company’s most valuable asset—its people. By providing an additional salary, Sklavenitis reinforces a culture of inclusivity and fairness, acknowledging every employee’s contribution to its success.

Robust Benefits For Long-Term Stability

Complementary to the 14th salary, the company has launched a robust benefits program designed to address both financial and personal security. An Automatic Cost of Living Adjustment (ATA) of 12.56 per cent ensures that wages remain aligned with inflation, safeguarding real income stability for its team members.

Comprehensive Health And Life Support

Sklavenitis further enhances employee welfare through access to a Group Life and Health Insurance Plan and a Provident Fund co-funded by the employer. These measures not only provide immediate protection but also empower employees to plan confidently for the future.

Exclusive Perks And Incentives

The company extends its commitment beyond conventional benefits by offering store discounts, a birth allowance, and holiday gift vouchers valued at €100 during both Easter and Christmas. These additional perks enhance employee satisfaction and underline Sklavenitis’ people-first ethos.

A Strategy For Mutual Success

In an industry where employee engagement directly impacts customer satisfaction, Sklavenitis’ comprehensive approach stands out as both a progressive and strategic business decision. By investing in its workforce, the company not only nurtures a supportive workplace but also drives superior corporate performance, setting a new benchmark for responsible employment practices in Cyprus.

EU Tightens Steel Imports As Overcapacity Hits 721M Tonnes

Robust Regulatory Framework

Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU, together with the European Parliament, reached a provisional agreement on measures addressing global steel overcapacity. The regulation targets trade diversion and excess supply while maintaining compliance with international trade rules. The framework also aims to preserve operational flexibility for downstream industries.

Safeguarding Employment And Environmental Commitments

Global steel overcapacity is projected to reach 721 million tonnes by 2027, compared with EU annual consumption levels. The measures are linked to the protection of around 2.5 million jobs. Policy direction also aligns with EU decarbonisation targets within the industrial sector.

Enhanced Trade Controls And Supply Chain Traceability

The regulation introduces tariff-free quotas of 18.3 million tonnes annually. Imports exceeding thresholds will be subject to a 50% duty. Measures cover 30 steel product categories and will replace current safeguards expiring on June 30, 2026. A “melt and pour” requirement is included to improve supply chain traceability.

Diversifying Import Sources And Reducing Dependencies

Rules apply to imports from all countries, excluding European Economic Area members, which remain subject to traceability requirements. The framework also reduces reliance on specific external suppliers, including Russia. Michael Damianos, Energy Minister of Cyprus, said the steel sector remains important for economic activity and energy transition. Bernd Lange, Chair of the European Parliament’s INTA Committee, said the measures address trade practices and market conditions.

Looking Ahead

The agreement introduces a revised tariff-rate quota system with import quotas reduced by approximately 47% compared with 2024. Limited carry-over flexibility will apply in the first year. The European Commission will review the measures in subsequent years. Formal adoption by the European Parliament and the Council is expected before implementation on July 1, 2026.

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