BIG Employees Protest Planned UK Workforce Cuts
BIG Employees Protest Against Planned UK Workforce Cuts
BIG, a prominent Danish architectural practice, has announced potential job cuts affecting up to 72 employees at its London office. This location, which employs approximately 160 individuals, is experiencing these reductions following the conclusion of a significant project.
Project Cancellation and Workforce Impact
The job losses come after the termination of a major project, believed to be a Red Sea resort in Saudi Arabia. This project was essential for the employment of nearly half the London team. Reportedly halted late last year, this cancellation contributed to the reshaping of various key developments in Saudi Arabia.
Recently, several other initiatives, including NEOM’s the Line and Zaha Hadid Architects’ Trojena ski resort, also faced suspensions or cancellations due to escalating costs and shifts in the country’s development trajectory. The Mukaab cube-shaped skyscraper project by Atkins and AECOM is among those recently put on hold.
Employee Response and Union Support
In light of the announced job cuts, employees are organizing a protest outside the London offices of BIG. This action is receiving support from the Section for Architectural Workers (SAW) and Unite the Union. The protesting staff members are urging BIG to acknowledge their unionization efforts and to conduct ‘meaningful consultation’ regarding the impending cuts.
These plans were initially communicated to employees in December, followed by a consultation period that began in January.
Background and Company Operations
BIG has been operating in London for a decade. It first established a site office in King’s Cross to facilitate its work on Google’s headquarters, designed in partnership with Heatherwick Studio. Subsequently, the firm relocated to 1 Finsbury Avenue in Broadgate, an establishment designed by AHMM.
Henriette Helstrup, managing director and partner at BIG London, stated, “It is correct that a major project in our London studio has been terminated due to circumstances beyond our control.” She emphasized the firm’s commitment to support affected employees and conduct the process in accordance with UK guidelines.
In her remarks, Helstrup acknowledged the inherent challenges of unexpected project changes within professional service firms, despite efforts in risk management and contractual diligence. “Our focus remains on navigating this situation responsibly and supporting our colleagues through this transition,” she concluded.
Conclusion
The future of BIG’s London office hangs in the balance as employees brace for potential changes. The upcoming protest highlights the staff’s determination to engage in dialogue and secure their rights amid uncertain times in the industry.
