Sunrise streamlines structures
Sunrise is considering cutting up to 190 jobs and is thus once again tightening its austerity measures after a short time. Around seven percent of the workforce could be affected. A cutback that exemplifies how tough competition has become in the Swiss telecoms market.
The planned reduction is part of an “organizational development” with which Sunrise intends to reduce hierarchical levels, shorten decision-making paths and make processes more efficient through the use of new technologies. Numerous management functions in particular would be affected. Store employees with direct customer contact and trainees are to be largely spared.
in the event of unavoidable redundancies, a social plan will come into effect that takes into account age and years of service, provides for a new placement program and includes a fund for individual bridging and qualification measures. Employees aged 58 and over receive fixed-term contracts until 62, and from 62 Sunrise supports early retirement. Younger employees are to be reintegrated into the labor market as quickly as possible.
repeated cuts hit staff hard
The news comes as another shock for employees. Sunrise already cut 166 jobs in 2024 as part of the integration of UPC following a consultation process.
in the ongoing consultation process, the Syndicom trade union is calling for alternatives to be seriously examined and for the company to refrain from further job cuts. The decision on the actual redundancies is expected once the process has been completed. They are likely to be announced in February and March 2026.
price war forces efficiency
The Swiss telecoms market is highly competitive and numerous new providers have entered the market since liberalization, while there has been no market consolidation. At the same time, customers are becoming increasingly price-sensitive, discount campaigns and promotions are squeezing margins and forcing consistent cost discipline.
in this environment, providers are trying to distinguish themselves with low tariffs, package offers and service quality, while at the same time investing heavily in networks, fiber optics and 5G. Structural programs such as Sunrise’s are therefore not just business manoeuvres, but an expression of a market in which efficiency is becoming a question of survival.