Since summer, VELUX has seen declining roof window sales due to the difficult macroeconomic situation, which is impacting consumer spending. This has resulted in overstocking and a need to scale back production in European factories. As a consequence of this, VELUX has initiated a process to reduce the workforce in factories in Poland, Denmark, Hungary, Slovakia and Germany. The process may result in up to 430 employees being laid off.
During the last months, several steps have been taken to mitigate the overstocking – including cutting production days and introducing a hiring freeze. Unfortunately, these steps have not been sufficient.
VELUX factory in Gniezno (Kolejowa st.)
Consumers are spending less on home improvements and our warehouses are full. Therefore, we need to produce less. Sadly, this means saying goodbye to talented and dedicated people. However, in the current macroeconomic situation, we believe it is necessary to make adjustments now to prepare our business and remain strong for the future – says Iben Schmidt Helbirk, EVP People & Organisation.
Local negotiations underway
Negotiations with relevant authorities and workers councils have begun, to find the best solutions possible for the affected employees. The final number of lay-offs will depend on the outcome of these negotiations and also the availability of national schemes for outsourcing employees or enacting governmental subsidy schemes to support the division of labour.
A situation like this is never easy and through the local negotiations we will seek to find the best solutions possible to help and support the employees who will be affected by this – says Iben Schmidt Helbirk.
VELUX factory in Namysłów
02-255, Warszawa
tel.: +48 22 33 77 000
