CWT, primo incontro sui 190 esuberi

Italian trade unions have called on CWT to withdraw a planned collective dismissal affecting 190 employees, roughly 45% of the 429 staff at the business travel operator acquired by Amex GBT in 2025, which is now owned by private equity firm Long Lake Management for $6.3 billion. Following the announcement, a legal study in Milan brought together Filcams, Fisascat, and Uuiltucs, who stated that without the withdrawal of dismissals, no negotiations will be initiated.

The unions believe there are numerous ways to resolve the critical situation, particularly since CWT has merged with Amex GBT, opening up possibilities for voluntary outplacement incentives and inter-company transfers. The company, through its legal representation, has indicated it will take time to respond, potentially leading to two scenarios: a negative response and continued dismissals, or a positive response to negotiate the removal of 190 collective dismissals.

Workers' representatives seek a broad group discussion with Amex GBT, which operates in Italy through Uvet GBT, rather than just CWT. However, the unions claim CWT's activities will be largely outsourced to Amex GBT, along with identifying roles that could be performed by artificial intelligence. The massive restructuring, driven by economic motives, is part of a broader plan, according to a trade union source, as it involves using new technologies, concentrating economic and productive benefits within companies while shifting social costs onto workers.

The merger with Long Lake Management aims to integrate AI expertise with Amex GBT's travel business, indicating growth, innovation, and competitive reinforcement objectives.