Belgium: Holcim Belgium has announced plans to cut 48 out of 200 jobs at its cement plant in Obourg to restore profitability. By enhancing efficiency the management hopes to attract important investments.
Although cement demand in Belgium has remained stable in France and the Netherlands, which are supplied by the factory in Obourg, demand fell by 30%. In addition the plant at Obourg faces high fixed costs from taxes and an old production fleet.
The management believes the factory in Obourg may continue operating with 152 workers by improving flexibility and simplifying the organisation. Talks with trade unions will be started as soon as possible, the company added.