Telia Estonia plans to lay off around one hundred employees. Across the entire company, approximately 900 employees will be laid off. These decisions will be implemented by the end of 2026.
Telia is now initiating consultations with the unemployment insurance fund. The company is increasingly utilizing artificial intelligence and automation.
Andre Visse, CEO of Telia Estonia, states that these changes are necessary. They aim to create a better and more flexible company. Customer needs and technology are evolving rapidly.
Visse mentioned that customers are seeking more personalized digital solutions. At the same time, costs are rising quickly, which could reduce the company's growth potential. The changes will help maintain competitiveness and keep service prices lower.
Artificial intelligence is already handling much of the work at Telia. For example, voice and chat bots serve customers. AI also assists with internal processes.
Telia's competitor Tele2 had previously laid off employees. Tele2 reduced its workforce by 20 percent. Margus Nõlvak, CEO of Tele2, says that technology helps make the company more efficient.
Tele2 uses artificial intelligence in customer service. Next year, they will use it even more. Nõlvak notes that human touch must remain, but AI helps improve processes.
The third major telecom operator, Elisa, is not currently laying off employees. They state that they use AI less and see no need for layoffs.