ABB & GALINDO: Stretching managerial responsibility during restructuring

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IE code
DE1-212-I
Language
English
Format
PDF
Nr. Of Pages
13
Academic Area
Type of publication
Case Study

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Description

The case follows the implementation of ABB´s decision to restructure its operations in Spain and close the manufacturing line at its Galindo factory in the Basque Country. ABB was required to enter into formal negotiations with its workers towards a Labor Force Reduction Procedure (ERE).  The workers at Galindo strongly objected to ABB´s restructuring proposals and were not placated by the company´s generous offers of compensation and employee retraining. The workers employed a number of strategies to derail the ERE including appealing to local politicians and engaging in public protests. After negotiations failed, a final decision was made to approve the ERE by the Ministry of Labor in Madrid.