Ford in talks with German employees about possible Saarlouis job cuts

Ford stated it had begin negotiations with German worker representatives regarding possible job cuts at its Saarlouis plant as the automaker considers discontinuing production of its Ford C-Max model.

“We can confirm that we are moving into formal negotiations with our Works Council with the objective of ending production of C-Max/Grand C-Max at Saarlouis,” Ford stated.

Ford said no official decision has yet been considered on whether to discontinue production of the C-Max. But discussions will figure out the consequences of such a step on the plant’s workforce.

“As we continue to match production to consumer demand, the consultation process also will include necessary adjustments to the workforce at Saarlouis,” Ford stated.

Saarlouis employs over 6,190 staff, but the van segment is diminishing and tougher emissions rules will need costly investments.

“Keeping the vehicle compliant with all regulatory obligations would require a very high level of investment for this model,” Ford stated.