Hoepli Employees Face Layoffs and Redundancies Amidst Company Liquidation in Milan
Milan, May 15, 2026 – The future of employees at the historic Milanese publisher and bookstore Hoepli, located in Milan, has been decided. The company, currently undergoing liquidation, will implement zero-hour Cassa Integrazione for 50 employees starting Tuesday, May 26, while 20 others will face collective layoffs. The remaining nine employees will transition to Mondadori, which acquired Hoepli’s school publishing branch on April 30.
Unsatisfactory Outcome for Unions
The decisions were finalized during a meeting of the Regional Council’s Productive Activities Commission, attended by the company’s liquidators, representatives from the Municipality, Metropolitan City, Afol Metropolitana, and trade unions. The unions expressed significant dissatisfaction with the outcome, which includes both Cassa Integrazione and collective layoffs. They called for a “shared commitment among institutions, companies, and social partners to activate the best possible redeployment policies.”
Political Reaction and Concerns for Culture
The situation at Hoepli has also drawn political attention. Chiara Valcepina, Regional Councillor for Fratelli d’Italia, stated, “To see a Milanese and even national cultural symbol fragmented like a stew into various company branches is unacceptable,” pledging support for the workers. Pierfrancesco Majorino, group leader for the Democratic Party at Pirellone, echoed these concerns, describing the situation as “a big wake-up call” for culture, and also reaffirmed assistance for the affected employees.
Countdown to Closure
The bookstore is scheduled to close to the public on May 25. A grace period until June 12 will be allowed for remaining deliveries to ensure the property is returned to its owner by the end of the month. Employees are reportedly preparing for a final flash mob to express gratitude to their long-standing supporters.
The Impact of Mondadori’s Acquisition
Mondadori’s acquisition of Hoepli’s school publishing branch on April 30 played a significant role in the restructuring. While nine employees will be absorbed by Mondadori, the majority face an uncertain future, highlighting the broader challenges within the publishing industry.
Call for Shared Responsibility and Support
The unions’ call for a shared commitment underscores the need for comprehensive support mechanisms for displaced workers. The liquidation of Hoepli, a company with a rich history and cultural significance in Milan, signals a critical moment for both the city’s cultural landscape and its workforce.
As the May 25 closure date approaches, the focus remains on the well-being of the affected employees and the potential for effective redeployment strategies to mitigate the impact of these job losses.
Source: milanopavia.news
