Amazon implements AI-driven layoffs in Barcelona offices
Amazon reached an agreement with unions to lay off 791 workers at its Barcelona corporate offices due to AI-driven process automation and relocation to lower-cost jurisdictions. The settlement reduced initial planned cuts and includes severance packages, voluntary departures, and relocation assistance for affected employees.
What happened
Amazon and unions reached an agreement on a Workforce Reduction Plan (ERE) affecting 791 employees in the company's Barcelona corporate offices, representing 80% of the local workforce.
The layoffs stem from automation of processes due to AI implementation and relocation to other sites with less stringent labor regulations, according to the union CCOO.
The agreement reduced the initial planned layoffs of 978 positions in Barcelona and includes severance of 38 days per year worked up to 24 months, a minimum of 7,000 euros, and paid leave until February 28 for employees to purchase company stock.
Reported impact
791 workers in Barcelona's corporate offices face job loss, with the affected employees working as customer service operators and IT staff in the Poblenou neighborhood.
As part of a global layoff announced in October, Amazon plans to reduce approximately 14,000 corporate staff worldwide, with approximately 900 positions eliminated across Spain.
Governance controls
Amazon negotiated with unions to reach the severance agreement, with CCOO representing ten of the thirteen workers' representatives at the negotiation table.
The agreement protects vulnerable groups by allowing protected categories to choose whether to remain, establishes voluntary departures, and provides for relocation of over 100 affected workers to other group companies.
Classification
Sources and evidence
Sources not yet published
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