In a recent blog post[1] shared on Shopify’s website by its CEO, Tobias Lütke, Shopify announced that it would be laying off 10% of its workforce by the end of the day. Those affected will get “16 weeks of severance pay, plus an additional week for every year of tenure at Shopify”.
Layoff is illegal in most circumstances. If your employer has laid you off, you may have a claim against your employer for monetary compensation or what is referred to as severance. The amount of severance will depend on how long you worked, your age, and your total compensation package at the time of layoff, which includes gross pay, commissions, and bonus.
In Martellaci v CFC/INX Ltd., the Court noted that if an employer puts an employee’s employment status on hold (as is the case in a layoff), and does not pay them or provide substantial benefits, this will constitute constructive dismissal, unless there is an agreement between the employer and employee that allows the employer to do this.
Shopify’s offer may sound substantial, but your position within the company may entitle you to more. Employees who have been laid off by Shopify or any other company are encouraged to contact us for a free consultation.
Remember: No recovery—no fee. Call us today.
[1] https://news.shopify.com/changes-to-shopifys-team#