There were mixed responses from employers. Some companies sought immediate settlement in order to appease strikers, whilst others resisted. Some employers increased wage levels before workers took action in order to prevent similar outbreaks. Companies affected by the strikes were told to contact the Department of Labour and the police (in the case of violence) by the Durban Chamber of Commerce. Employers were advised by the Department of Labour not to bargain with strikers, to avoid responding to requests until they returned to work, and to deny compensation for time not spent at work. Most of the strike-affected companies responded by increasing wages. Although many companies threatened to fire workers, this was seldom the case. A lack of communication between workers and employers was viewed as one of the main causes of the strikes amongst employers.
