Zara’s AI-Driven Layoffs in Romania Spark Global Ethical Fears as 1,200 Employees Replaced by Bots Overnight
In a controversial move that has sent shockwaves through the fashion and tech industries, Zara’s parent company, Inditex, abruptly replaced 1,200 warehouse workers in Romania with AI-powered logistics bots, citing a 40% efficiency gain. The layoffs, executed without warning, have ignited a fiery debate on x.com about ethical automation and job displacement, with #RomaniaBoycott trending globally. As consumer trust wavers, Inditex’s stock dropped 3.2% in after-hours trading, signaling that unchecked AI adoption may come at a steep reputational cost.