Abstract:
In the context of digitalization and the growing importance of e-commerce in the Chilean retail sector, this research focuses on a multinational retail company that implemented plans to restructure functions and tasks at work, including the conversion of traditional jobs such as supermarket cashiers. Using a longitudinal qualitative methodological approach, the study involved interviews with key actors, non-participant observation at workplaces and union meetings, and document analysis. The findings reveal that the company pursued a multifunctional supermarket work plan, aiming to modernize supermarkets and transition workers from various sections into a single multifunctional shop operator position. However, due to unclear roles and the absence of substantial pay incentives, unions opposed this change agenda, leading to national regulatory disputes.
Autor: Alejandro Castillo, PhD University of Manchester.