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.
Aigle, is a French fashion company and subsidiary of the Swiss group Maus Frères, that in 2021 decided to reshore part of its children's boot production from China to its Ingrandes-sur-Vienne factory in France that was constructed in 1967 and employees 200 workers. The company experienced an increase in the demand for its rubber boots by 46% in 2021 driven by a post-lockdown desire for nature. Through this reshoring initiative the company aims to reduce its carbon footprint ,reduce transport costs, enhance market responsiveness in Europe, and capitalize on the "Made in France" label. Aigle plans to hire 80 people for its Ingrandes-sur-Vienne facility. The French Lolly Pop model, priced at 65 euros, is the first to be produced domestically, with a goal to have 50% of children's boot models made in France by 2023. Its Chinese supplier will continue to supply Asian stores, which represent 50% of its turnover.
Eurofound (2021), Aigle, Reshoring in France, factsheet number 267, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://restructuringeventsprod.azurewebsites.net/restructuring-events/detail/267.