BIS Banking Systems (B)

Since the 1990s, one observes a clear internationalization and consolidation trend in the European temporary work services. The diminishing role of the national legislation, the liberalization in some European countries for temporary work contracts and the growing trend of cross-border contracts of European multinationals with TWBs, were causing the current evolution in the industry.

Vedior International is the temporary work service arm of the Dutch Vendex International Group and one of the large Dutch temporary work services companies. The company has decided to embark on a European strategy and is currently active in the Benelux, France and Germany.

Toward the end of 2001, a group of investors is faced with the strategic decision of taking over (parts of) the bankrupt Sabena, the former Belgian flag carrier. To this end, the case describes the major crisis in the airline industry at the start of the new millennium, the competitive situation on the Belgian and European market and the chronic suffering of Sabena.