TAOYUAN (TVBS News) — More than 70 factory workers at Oceanic Beverages Co. Inc., the popular beverage Apple Sidra manufacturer, have lodged complaints against the company, claiming that their May salaries have not been paid. The employees, based at the Taoyuan factory, reported the non-payment to the Taoyuan City Government, prompting an investigation by the Taoyuan City Labor Inspection Division.
On Monday (June 12), officials from the Taoyuan City Government contacted the factory's supervisor for clarification on the salary delay. However, the supervisor failed to clearly explain the total outstanding amount and the number of affected workers.
The Labor Inspection Division has initiated an ongoing investigation into the matter to verify the employee claims. If found guilty, Oceanic Beverages Co., Inc. could face a fine of up to NT＄1 million per the Labor Standards Act.
Earlier this year, Apple Sidra faced scrutiny over food safety concerns when customers discovered white residue in the product bottles during April and May. Taoyuan public health officials also found moldy ceilings and rusty pipes on the production lines and suspended the factory's operation.
The Taoyuan Department of Public Health had requested the factory to address the issue, but the factory has yet to arrange another inspection.
In response to the salary allegations, Oceanic Beverages Co., Inc. headquarters said they had not received any information regarding the reported non-payment of salaries. The situation remains under investigation as authorities determine the facts surrounding employee claims.