Restructuring events
European Restructuring Monitor (ERM)
The restructuring events database contains factsheets with data on large-scale restructuring events reported in the principal national media and company websites in each EU Member State. This database was created in 2002.
As announced on 13. January 2020, the automobile manufacturer Opel plans to cut 4,100 jobs, in Germany, by 2023 due to internal restructuring. Management announced that cuts are necessary to secure the company’s long-term future and specifically mentioned transformation of the automobile market and the planned merger with Fiat-Chrysler for other reasons. The job reduction will be staggered in 3 phases and will offer remaining employees protection against dismissal:
According to Opel, the job reduction will be as socially acceptable as possible. Opel will offer volunteer programmes and early-retirement programmes.
Updated, 14/01/25
Opel is currently implementing a measure to eliminate 1,000 positions as a part of the second phase of the planned job cuts. To accelerate the process, Opel is now offering fast-track severance packages. Employees who decide on a severance package by mid-January will receive a special bonus. The current program primarily targets engineers and the company’s headquarters in Rüsselsheim. In October 2024, the number of temporary workers at the site was already reduced by 200. Stellantis reported a 20% decline in sales for the first nine months of 2024.
Eurofound (2020), Opel, Internal restructuring in Germany, factsheet number 100337, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://dev.eurofound.europa.eu/restructuring-events/detail/100337.
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