Restructuring events
European Restructuring Monitor (ERM)
The restructuring events database contains factsheets with data on large-scale restructuring events reported in the principal national media and company websites in each EU Member State. This database was created in 2002.
Carrefour, a French multinational retailer, has announced the dismissal of 1233 of its Belgian employees. The operation is part of a larger operation by the company to cut back on costs which will involve investments in e-commerce. Approximately 180 jobs will be lost at the company headquarters, 2 hypermarkets will close and many will have their number of employees reduced. Trade unions are concerned and state that the operation is a "social bloodbath". Additionally they criticise the attitude of the company management as well as the amateurish way in which the news was announced. Employees in several stores started strikes after the news broke and trade unions indicate that others will follow. In 2010, 1700 employees were dismissed after 7 supermarkets and 9 hypermarkets were closed. In France several thousands of employees are facing dismissal as well.
Update, 13/4/18: In April came the news that approximately 191 jobs might be saved after negotiations between the company management and the unions. Stores in both Genk and Angleur will not be closed entirely but instead reduced in size. In a few other stores the amount of jobs at risk has been reduced. However in exchange the management want the unions to agree with its transformation plan before the summer (increasing flexibility or 'polyactivity' of employees and agreement to the implementation of new technologies in stores).
Eurofound (2018), Carrefour, Internal restructuring in Belgium, factsheet number 93124, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://apps.eurofound.europa.eu/restructuring-events/detail/93124.