Diaper manufacturer Ontex wants to cut almost half of its Belgian workforce. 489 jobs are under threat in Eeklo and Buggenhout (East Flanders). The factory in Eeklo is closing down. The company points to production costs in Belgium that they say are "significantly higher" than in competitor countries.
During special works councils the management announced "the intention to restructure its Belgian production and distribution activities". Under the plans, the production plant in Eeklo will close with the loss of all 349 jobs. The production of care products for women and babies made there will be transferred to other European Ontex plants.
In addition, the site in Buggenhout will be transformed into what is being called an "expertise centre for research, development and production of medium and serious incontinence care products". There, 140 of the 528 jobs are under threat, although the company also promises 40 million euros in investments. The aim is to significantly modernise and automate production there.
The manufacture of light incontinence products made in Buggenhout till now will move to another European plant in Europe. However, the research and development department and the commercial arm, including sales and customer services, will remain there.