READING FOXCONN SHIFTS ITS FOCUS TO AUTOMATION Foxconn operates a network of factories across the Chinese main- Questions land, employing 1.2 million people, that makes products for tech companies that include Apple, Hewlett Packard, and Dell. The 1. As Foxconn cuts jobs as it shifts to greater use of automation, electronics manufacturing giant has been on a steady course for a jobs will be created in other companies. In what types of com- while to replace manpower with robotic systems. panles would you expect to see jobs created? "Foxconn (hasj vowed to install up to 1 million robots in its fac- 2. Many companies outsourced their manufacturing activities tones over the next three years, which analysts suggested was to Foxconn due to it's low labor costs. Does Foxconn's shift to in part to address long-time scandals such as high suicide rates autornation make it likely that some of those companies will among employees and exploitation of workers." reconsider outsourcing in favor of shifting to automation? What Foreign manufacturers in China are also viewing upgrades are some reasons for staying with Foxconn. and what are some is vital to their operations in the country. In fact, numerous mul- reasons that favor shifting to their own automated processest inational companies have recognized the long-term benefits of Source: Based on "Foxconn halts recruitment as focus shifts to automation," He placing human labor with robots. Wel in Shanghai, Chino Daily, February 2. 2013. p