In a recent move that has generated significant concern, Airbnb has faced criticism following the mass dismissal of over 400 employees working on its French customer service project with Foundever in Portugal. This sudden decision has left hundreds of families without income and facing considerable uncertainty, raising questions about the company’s approach to managing its workforce.
The dismissed employees provided essential customer support for Airbnb’s French market as part of an outsourcing partnership with Foundever, a prominent customer experience management company. Recently, however, Airbnb decided to end this support arrangement, impacting hundreds of staff without a comprehensive explanation to those affected.
Adding to the controversy, reports indicate that Airbnb has already partnered with Concentrix, which recently rebranded as Webhelp, to continue its French market support through a new outsourcing arrangement. Positions that were once held at Foundever are now being recruited through this new partner, sparking concerns from former employees and advocates about potential ethical implications. 
For many affected employees and their families—some of whom relocated to Portugal specifically for these roles—the layoffs have had serious consequences. Many trusted in the stability of working with a high-profile company like Airbnb and now face financial insecurity in a competitive job market.
Critics suggest that Airbnb’s use of outsourcing arrangements may allow the company to limit labor costs and reduce job protections, raising questions about corporate responsibility and the impact on employees’ livelihoods. The timing of the layoffs, followed by the recruitment of similar roles through a different outsourcing partner, has prompted some to call for greater transparency around Airbnb’s labor practices.
As Airbnb continues to expand globally, this development sheds light on the challenges of relying on outsourced labor and highlights the vulnerability that some workers face in outsourced roles.
The situation is still unfolding, and former employees, alongside worker advocacy groups, are seeking accountability from both Airbnb and the third-party outsourcing companies involved. As the story develops, Airbnb may face increasing pressure to respond to public concern and address questions about the transparency of its labor practices.
