To avoid layoffs, German car manufacturer Opel is forced to invite more than 2,000 employees to leave the company through a volunteer program. At the moment, 500 people have registered. The automaker is also responding to damages caused by Corona by extending short-term work (Kurzarbeit).
Short-term work due to the corona crisis at automaker Opel is expected to be extended until the end of 2021 – subject to the approval of the employment agency. According to the company, management and the general works council agreed on such a decision in a document on key issues. In addition, Opel plans to open a partial retirement program for all employees born in 1964, – said in a statement.
In the so-called priority areas, Opel is studying the offers of transfer companies. The location in Rüsselsheim was especially mentioned, for example with regard to storage of parts and design. A “special program” is also provided for those born between 1961 and 1964. Opel did not provide details. “Agreements on individual points should be concluded in the coming days,” the company said. VRM Group newspapers previously reported on the agreement.
Opel recently put in place layoffs in case an agreed volunteer job loss program by the end of 2021 could not find the desired 2,100 participants. So far, only about 500 employees have decided to quit. Opel boss Michael Loscheller also emphasized that he is confident that he can find the right solution with the company’s advice.
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