Webasto is set to lay off another 300 employees in Germany as part of its ongoing restructuring initiatives in response to a challenging market landscape.

The job cuts will predominantly impact employees at the German automotive supplier’s facilities in Stockdorf and Gilching, with a particular emphasis on leadership roles within administrative divisions.

This decision follows discussions between management and employee representatives.

Affected employees have been briefed on the forthcoming steps, with the retrenchment due to be finalised by the end of the year.

Webasto CEO Joerg Buchheim said the decision was “not easy”, but “essential” amid the market developments.

He stated: “The shifts in the automotive market demand a leaner, more cost-efficient organisation with reduced complexity and faster decision-making processes. This is the only way we can remain competitive.” 

In collaboration with the company-wide works council, the management has developed a “balanced reconciliation of interests and a social plan”, as per the company’s statement.

A significant aspect of this plan is the provision for impacted staff to move into a transfer company, which will offer support for up to 12 months for their professional reorientation.

In January, Johann Stohner assumed the role of chief restructuring officer (CRO) at Webasto.

Stohner has been tasked with expediting the financial and operational restructuring efforts to secure the company’s future viability.