In line with its new organization structure, Burger King Corp, a worldwide fast-food chain, announced plans to layoff around 430 employees from its North American and Latin American operations, about 216 of which will be coming from the South Florida headquarters. Burger King was one of the big companies affected by the recent recession. The fast-food giant registered a worldwide sales decline of nearly 2% during the economic downturn, while its competitor, McDonalds, made 6% profit growth. Burger King is now in the process of company restructuring to align with its business goals and to position itself for a long-term success.

Around 8.84% will be reduced from the total workforce of the South Florida headquarters, if the job cuts push through. However, Jose Tomas, head of human resources and communications for Burger King, assured that the South Florida operation will continue. “Despite the cuts, Burger King wants to keep headquarters in Miami. We are not going to cease being a major corporate presence in Miami. The bottom line is we’ve been here for 50 years and we’re committed to Miami.”

Burger King also disclosed that the affected employees will be assisted by giving them continuous pay, benefits and outplacement services. Burger King has offered compensation packages of at least six months pay and benefits to the dismissed workers. In October, Burger King Corp. was purchased by an affiliate of the 3G Capital for about $4 billion, including the assumption of debt. Layoffs and reshuffling of major positions followed after the deal was sealed. Burger King is now intensifying its efforts to catch-up with its competitors and to remain competitive in the fast-food industry.

Source: http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/12/06/1959749/burger-king-to-cut-261-jobs-in.html