A Finnish general literature publisher WSOY is developing its operations in line with its strategy to respond to the ongoing transformation in the book publishing industry. The development programme includes both financial and structural changes.
"Digitalisation, changes in reading habits, diversification of distribution channels and economic downturn have affected general literature publishers' business. This also applies to WSOY," says Anna Baijars, Managing Director of WSOY.
On 10 May 2010, WSOY will initiate statutory employer-employee negotiations that will affect all 150 employees. The estimated reduction need is 20 to 30 people. The negotiations will be concluded at the latest by 21 June 2010.
Our target is to create modern and profitable WSOY, which has potential to grow and invest in its authors," Baijars continues. Diversification and digitalisation of the literature distribution channels create new requirements for the production process. WSOY modernises this process and transfers its picture and page-making operations to Aste Kirjat Oy as of 1 June 2010. This agreement involves 11 employees who will transfer from WSOY to Aste Kirjat and continue working for Aste under their existing employment contracts.