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Bangalore, Oct. 12 Wipro Technologies has completed talks with employee representatives on the closure of its design centre at Sophia Antipolis in France. However, the company did not spell out details citing the ‘silent period’ ahead of its second quarter results on October 27.

“Following our commitment to constructive dialogue, NewLogicTechnologies has now completed the consultation process with the employee representatives in relation to the closure of the site at Sophia-Antipolis. We have agreed on significant measures to assist employees and will continue our efforts to find solutions for all employees,” said Mr Christophe Martinoli, Country Head of Wipro in France, in a statement.

Reports in the French media said Wipro has signed an agreement with employee representatives and the deal was expected to be announced officially by the French Industry Minister, Mr Christian Estrosi, and the Wipro Chairman, Mr Azim Premji.

However, Wipro officials did not comment on the French media reports. The semiconductor design centre at Sophia Antipolis that came to Wipro through the acquisition of the Austrian firm New Logic in 2005 employs some 61 engineers.

The centre builds components and connectivity-based semiconductor intellectual property in wireless and wire line segments.

A weak market has forced Wipro to take a relook at its semiconductor IP portfolio. As a result, Wipro has started exploring options to shut down or sell off the design centre, a move that has raised political issues in France.

Wipro recently reiterated to the French Government its commitment to help reduce the impact of any potential redundancies that may arise as part of this process. The company would try and identify opportunities for redeployment of the employees.

More Stories on : Restructuring | Software | Wipro Ltd

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