Halle (Brussels Morning newspaper): Barry Callebaut is cutting over 500 jobs in Belgium, mainly in Lokeren, Wieze, and Halle. After discussions, job losses were reduced to 150 in Lokeren and Wieze, and 18 in Halle. CEO Peter Feld announced a CHF 500 million investment for the future, aiming to save CHF 250 million each year.
At the end of February, a chocolate company announced plans to cut around 500 jobs in Belgium, with more than 300 affected in Lokeren and Wieze. After a social agreement, the job losses there were reduced to 150. In Halle, the initial loss of 178 jobs has now been reduced to 18, including 12 blue-collar and 6 white-collar positions.
What impact will Barry Callebaut’s job cuts in Halle have on employees?
“That’s still 18 too many, but it’s a great result,” said ABWV secretary Van der Meeren. He explained that the Renault law allowed them to review each job and explore possible alternatives carefully. Their familiarity with the company helped achieve this outcome. Van der Meeren and Christians noted that the saving of many jobs is also due to the “better economic situation” and “additional investments” expected from the Swiss head office.
Management has announced that they have signed an agreement. They said, “We are glad to share that we completed discussions in Halle this week and have a plan for all of Belgium.” They are focused on helping affected employees while sticking to their plans. The company is investing 500 million Swiss francs to prepare for the future and expects to save 250 million each year.
