Paid up? Living wage efforts in banana supply chains of Dutch and German supermarkets

Overview

Bananas are a staple on supermarket shelves across Europe, but the workers who grow, harvest and pack them often earn wages that fall short of what they need to live with dignity. This report examines whether major Dutch and German supermarkets are delivering on their commitments to close living wage gaps in banana supply chains. Drawing on new research with workers and trade unions in Ecuador and Costa Rica, it finds a troubling gap between promises made and reality on the ground. While many retailers have taken initial steps, living wage gaps persist, trade unions are frequently sidelined, and workers are not aware of payments meant to top up wages. The report shows that voluntary contributions alone are not enough. To ensure living wages become a reality, supermarkets must change how they work in partnership with workers and their representatives.