Furthermore, there were significant operational issues, such as inaccurate inventory tracking blamed on faulty software, leading to frequent stock discrepancies. Some Slovenian managers reportedly accused American employees of theft as an explanation for missing inventory, exacerbating the strained relations between the staff and management. Employees also reported systemic issues with overtime payments. According to Serraty and others, despite submitting forms for overtime work, they often received compensation for fewer hours than worked, if any. The management allegedly adjusted the recorded hours, reducing the payable overtime. This issue extended to broader financial mismanagement, affecting not just employees but also suppliers and contractors, with delayed payments causing friction and damaging professional relationships.
In response to these claims, EK's Head of Communications, Sasha Robey, stated that the company had addressed the two reported incidents of racism and reiterated EKWB's commitment to diversity and inclusion. However, the extent of these issues, as described by former employees, suggests systemic problems that extended beyond individual incidents. These allegations have cast a shadow over EKWB's business practices, raising concerns about workplace safety, equity, and corporate governance within the company.