In 2022, Frito-Lay, a subsidiary of PepsiCo, found itself embroiled in two separate lawsuits, each highlighting significant issues within the company’s operations.
Unpaid Wages Stemming from Ransomware Attack
The first lawsuit, filed in January 2022, alleged that Frito-Lay had violated the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) by failing to pay overtime wages to hourly and salaried non-exempt employees. The lawsuit stemmed from a ransomware attack in December 2021 that crippled the company’s timekeeping system, Kronos. As a result of the outage, Frito-Lay was unable to accurately track employee hours, leading to widespread discrepancies in overtime pay.
The plaintiffs, a group of Frito-Lay employees represented by Nichols Kaster, PLLC, claimed that the company had failed to properly compensate them for overtime hours worked between December 2021 and February 2022. Instead of paying overtime based on actual hours worked, Frito-Lay allegedly resorted to estimating overtime based on employees’ average earnings, resulting in underpayment.
Worker Electrocution and Surveillance Allegations
The second lawsuit, filed in May 2022, involved far more serious allegations. The lawsuit, filed by Brandon Ingram, claimed that Ingram was severely electrocuted while working at a Frito-Lay factory in Missouri in 2016. The incident resulted in significant injuries and ongoing medical issues for Ingram.
The lawsuit further alleged that Frito-Lay not only failed to provide Ingram with adequate medical care but also engaged in surveillance and intimidation tactics against him and his family. Ingram claimed that the company had hired private investigators to follow him and his family, and had even gone so far as to install cameras outside their home.
Frito-Lay denied these allegations, stating that it had provided Ingram with appropriate medical care and that it had not engaged in any surveillance activities. The company also stated that it had offered Ingram a generous settlement package, which he had declined.
Conclusion
The two lawsuits against Frito-Lay highlight serious concerns about the company’s labor practices and worker safety. The allegations of unpaid wages and surveillance raise questions about the company’s commitment to its employees’ well-being. The electrocution incident and its aftermath further underscore the need for stricter safety measures within Frito-Lay’s facilities.
FAQs
What was the outcome of the lawsuit regarding unpaid wages?
The lawsuit regarding unpaid wages is still ongoing. A settlement has not yet been reached.
What is the status of the lawsuit involving Brandon Ingram’s electrocution?
The lawsuit involving Brandon Ingram’s electrocution is also ongoing. A trial date has not yet been set.
What steps has Frito-Lay taken to address these allegations?
Frito-Lay has stated that it is committed to investigating the allegations and taking appropriate action. The company has also stated that it is reviewing its safety procedures to prevent future incidents.
What can Frito-Lay do to regain the trust of its employees and the public?
Frito-Lay can regain the trust of its employees and the public by demonstrating transparency and accountability. The company should provide regular updates on the status of the lawsuits and take concrete steps to address the underlying issues that led to these allegations.
What role can government agencies play in preventing similar incidents?
Government agencies can play a role in preventing similar incidents by conducting thorough investigations of workplace safety complaints and enforcing labor laws.
What can employees do to protect themselves against unfair labor practices?
Employees can protect themselves against unfair labor practices by being aware of their rights under the FLSA and other labor laws. They should also report any suspected violations to the appropriate authorities.
I have a question I worked for frito lay and I have gotten my annual report pay period January 1st to march it said I only made 1000 for 12 weeks I started Frito-Lay in February 2022 to October 2023 and I’ve noted my pay wages and period is so wrong who would I call C?