American Express GBT to make widescale UK redundancies
American Express Global Business Travel is believed to be planning to make around 30% of its UK-based staff redundant.
A company spokesman confirmed the travel management company was planning ‘some mandatory reductions’ but did not specify the number. TravelMole understands from posts on social media that the company is looking at shedding 30% of its UK staff.
The company spokesman said: "GBT is in a strong financial position, but in the current environment we have to reset our cost base to more closely align with demand.
"We have taken measures to protect as many jobs as possible, including the use of government support schemes where available, voluntary retirement and severance programmes, and introducing new flexible working options.
"There are some areas where unfortunately these measures alone are insufficient. Only in these specific circumstances we will consult with our colleagues on the difficult decision to implement involuntary reductions.
"We continue to consult with and support affected colleagues throughout this period."
Former HRG Managing Director Mike Platt tweeted his sympathy, praising the staff and saying ‘many’ are taking voluntary redundancy.
GBT, whose UK headquarters are in London’s Canary Wharf, bought the Hogg Robinson Group two years ago for around £400 million and merged the two brands. The redundancies are believed to have also affected former HRG staff.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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