The trade union front heavily criticized the Van Hool family after the announcement of bankruptcy and the loss of 1,550 to 1,850 jobs. They expressed a sense of vicarious shame at the situation. Saving Van Hool was no longer an option due to a long-standing inheritance issue within the family of the bus builder. The unions were critical of the family for not resolving their dispute, which ultimately led to the downfall of the company. They felt that the family prioritized their personal interests over the well-being of the company and its employees.
Trade union representative Kim Samison pointed out that family disputes should have been kept separate from business negotiations. She emphasized that it was the family’s responsibility to settle their differences and prevent the company from going bankrupt. The unions acknowledged the efforts of the employees who had to bear the brunt of the situation. They also mentioned
