Ethics in the digital workplace
Digitisation and automation technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), can affect working conditions in a variety of ways and their use in the workplace raises a host of new ethical concerns.
The Sidel company, which manufactures machines for packaging food, beverages and cosmetic products, will close by the end of 2023, and 119 people will lose their jobs. The factory currently employs 109 people and 10 people on work-study contracts. The employees organised a strike in front of the factory on 19 October, protesting against the announcement. The staff representatives denounced the management's intention to relocate production to Asia. In a press release, management justified its decision by the desire to create synergies within the Sidel group in order to make savings. Employment effect will start progressively through natural departures.
Updated, 16/12/2022: On 12 December 2022, UNSA, the majority trade union at Sidel's facility in Lisieux, launched a national call for a strike on 16 December 2022 against the French packaging machines manufacturer's decision to close down by the end of 2023 which would include the loss of 67 jobs.
Eurofound (2022), Sidel Packing Solutions , Closure in France, factsheet number 107630, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://restructuringeventsprod.azurewebsites.net/restructuring-events/detail/107630.