Unions react to announced layoffs at Lido in Paris

Workers at the iconic Parisian cabaret Lido are facing the threat of mass layoff. Unions are calling for the preservation of the cultural landmark. With demand peaking again and staff shortages throughout the sector, now is not the time to throw the towel in for this Champs-Elysées institution.

The announcement follows the recent takeover by hotel conglomerate Accor. The new management have informed the workers that the cabaret will be transformed, claiming the financial situation of the organisation as the reason. According to Accor’s plans, this transformation will put an end to the dinner shows that have made the Lido famous. Most of the current jobs will be outsourced, and out of 184 jobs, only 27 are planned to remain in-house. This comes as a huge shock.

At the time of the acquisition in February 2022, Accor had committed to maintain the activity of the Lido. Instead of this commitment, the elected representatives and union delegates of the Lido were presented with the ill-named “Plan de Sauvegarde de l’Emploi” mid-May. The management told the unions that the changes will come in force on 12 August, leaving very little time for proper negotiations and for finding solutions that would protect the jobs.

We urge Accor to enter into transparent and good faith negotiations with the unions to ensure sustainable employment and so that the Lido can continue to operate and produce quality productions with its experienced staff.

UNI Europa calls  on Sébastien Bazin, CEO of the Accor group, to reconsider his project to “redesign” the Lido’s artistic project, to maintain its cabaret activity and to keep all of its employees.

UNI Europa and all affiliates of its media, entertainment and arts sector  stand together with workers at the Lido, and colleagues of FASAP-FO and FNSAC-CGT in their fight to save the Lido.

The Lido must live!