Historic Gucci Worker Strike Marks a First in Company's History

29 Nov, 2023

Historic Gucci Worker Strike Marks a First in Company's History

Gucci, renowned for its craftsmanship, confronts an unprecedented event in its history as its artisans initiate a strike in response to proposed plans for relocating a significant portion of their team from Rome to Milan. This move, announced by the luxury Italian brand under the umbrella of the French conglomerate Kering in October, aims to transfer 153 out of 219 design employees from the capital city to Milan.

Around 40 artisans from Gucci's design studio halted their work on Monday, protesting against what they perceive as a disguised mass layoff. Chiara Giannotti, a union representative for the brand, highlighted the striking artisans' pivotal role in Gucci's heritage. Giannotti noted that over 50 Gucci artisans participated in a recent national strike organized by Italy's major trade unions.

Kering, the parent company, views this restructuring as an opportunity to downsize the workforce, urging dissatisfied employees or those unable to relocate due to familial commitments in Rome to consider leaving. However, the striking artisans argue against this, emphasizing the importance of their role within the brand's legacy.

Gucci clarified that the relocation does not involve staff reduction and assures compliance with existing regulations. The company stated it has proposed "a range of financial and supportive measures" for the affected staff. Nonetheless, concerns persist regarding the fate of the remaining 66 artisans slated to stay in Rome, as highlighted by the unions.

Some employees have expressed discontent, characterizing Gucci's handling of the situation as trendy layoffs. The brand's recent change in artistic leadership, appointing Sabato De Sarno in January to succeed Alessandro Michele, raises further uncertainties amidst this ongoing strike. Michele, known for his eccentric, gender-fluid designs and unconventional presentations during his seven-year tenure, left an indelible mark on the label before his departure.