Kiefel cuts 100 jobs in Freilassing

The restructuring plan of the German thermoforming equipment manufacturer Kiefel, part of the Brückner Group, announced a few days ago, is now being implemented with the reduction of around 100 jobs at its Freilassing site in Germany. A quarter of these positions will be affected by natural fluctuations, such as retirements or the expiry of fixed-term contracts.

With the strategy named “ONE Kiefel” the company aims to enhance its capacity for innovation and strengthen customer proximity in all relevant markets. In addition to its existing business areas, the focus is shifting towards all segments with high growth potential and a broad customer base, in order to better seize market opportunities and expand its product portfolio. The measures underway have been deemed necessary due to challenging market conditions in mechanical engineering and the intensifying global competition. These changes will also involve adjustments to certain job profiles and organisational structures.

“‘ONE Kiefel’ represents our commitment, and that of the Brückner Group, to the future of our company, including at Freilassing. We are aware that this transformation entails a drastic cut for some of our colleagues in Freilassing,” said Matt Sieverding, CEO of Kiefel. “Our goal is to proceed with a restructuring process that is as fair as possible. This is why the necessary negotiations with employee representatives have been initiated.”