According to reporting from Reuters, Italy’s largest unions said the action follows management’s refusal to discuss a group-wide reorganisation plan known as “ReconKering”, which unions claim has not been formally presented to worker representatives. The unions also criticised plans to cut 54 jobs at Alexander McQueen.
Kering confirmed the redundancies at McQueen and said it remains committed to maintaining “constructive dialogue” with unions, Reuters reported. The company has extensive operations in Italy, where a significant proportion of its luxury goods production is based.
Further reporting from WWD said unions are seeking greater clarity on the future structure of the group’s Italian activities and the potential impact on employment. The publication noted that concerns have intensified following the announcement of the McQueen layoffs and broader discussions around efficiency measures within the group.
Italian financial newspaper Il Sole 24 Ore reported that Kering has defended its approach, saying dialogue with unions has been ongoing, while maintaining that operational changes are part of wider efforts to improve performance.
The developments come as new Chief Executive Luca de Meo pursues a strategic overhaul aimed at improving profitability. Reuters reported that plans unveiled last month include ambitions to more than double Kering’s profit margins, streamline and upgrade its store network and expand its jewellery division.
Additional market commentary from Simply Wall St and Yahoo Finance suggested the planned strike adds further pressure to Kering as the group attempts to reassure investors over its restructuring programme and long-term recovery strategy.
