Ford Plans Further Job Cuts in Europe, German Works Council Says
BERLIN (Reuters) – Ford is planning to reduce more jobs in Germany, Spain, and the U.K., according to Benjamin Gruschka, the head of the workers' council at Ford's Cologne plant in Germany. A final decision on these cuts is expected by the end of June.
Restructuring Plans in Germany
It is still unclear how many additional jobs will be cut in Germany under this new restructuring plan. This plan is an extension of a previous one that aimed to make the company more efficient. Gruschka has mentioned that Ford has already cut 2,300 jobs in Germany, reducing the staff to 13,000 employees.
Ford’s Transition to Electric Vehicles
The job cuts are part of Ford's strategy to shift to electric vehicle (EV) production, which requires fewer workers. Last year, Ford announced it would cut 3,800 jobs in Europe to support this transition. This shift is necessary for the company's future growth in the ever-evolving automotive industry.
Additional Cuts in Spain
Ford's restructuring plan also affects its assembly plant in Valencia, Spain. The company plans to cut up to 1,600 jobs there. This move is part of the effort to streamline operations and focus more on electric vehicle production.
Awaiting Official Response
As of now, Ford Germany has not responded to Reuters' request for comments on the new restructuring plan and job cuts.
With evolving market demands and technological advancements, Ford aims to adapt by reducing workforce and investing in future technologies. This transformation is essential but poses significant challenges for affected employees.