Audi Brussels Factory Faces Uncertainty as Interim Contracts Not Extended and Layoffs Announced
Peter D’hoore, spokesperson for Audi Brussels, confirmed in a press release that interim contracts will not be extended. This decision was described as difficult due to the challenging economic conditions and uncertainty surrounding subsidies in some markets. The reluctance of customers to purchase fully electric vehicles has led to the need to adapt production at the Audi Brussels factory, which exclusively produces electric cars.
The factory in Forest focuses on building the large electric Audi Q8 e-tron, while a smaller, cheaper counterpart, the Q6 e-tron, is not manufactured there. The decision not to extend interim contracts and resulting layoffs were communicated to unions during a works council meeting. In response, the ABVV issued a strike notice in hopes of negotiating a reduction in dismissals.
The unexpected nature of the decision and lack of preparatory conversations have left union representatives and employees feeling frustrated. The future of the factory in Forest is uncertain, as the Q8 will no longer be produced there starting in 2027. Discussions with management about allocating a new model are ongoing, with an announcement expected in November.
The impact of these changes on the factory and its employees is significant. Potential solutions are being sought to address the challenges faced by the factory and its workforce. The ABVV and other stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation and actively engaging in discussions to find a way forward.
