Restructuring
Restructuring is the term used to describe the changes that companies undertake to maintain their operations and profits in response to the pressures of globalisation, or economic, technological, environmental and other developments. It takes many forms, including closures, privatisation and outsourcing, mergers and acquisitions, and relocation to areas where labour is cheaper and less organised. Unfortunately, this often happens at the expense of workers, either through job losses, or the erosion of pay and conditions under the threat of redundancy.
The ETUC is not against change, but believes it must be justified and handled in a socially responsible way. Trade unions want to play an active role in anticipating, negotiating and managing restructuring.