60 jobs threatened at the Magotteaux group factory in Vaux-sous-Chèvremont

The management of the Vaux-sous-Chèvremont factory (Chaudfontaine, province of Liège) of the Magotteaux industrial group announced on Thursday a plan to modernize the factory through the possible elimination of 60 jobs out of the 211 on the site, we learned in a press release.

The management cites “structural difficulties”, such as a difficult financial situation and an “accumulation of losses for more than five years”, combined with the consequences of the floods of July 2021 and the current crises (cost of energy, raw materials and of the work force).

“The actions already implemented and the many efforts made have unfortunately not been enough. The management wishes to propose a new approach, invest and give itself the means to rectify the situation”, justifies the business.

“The objective is to modernize the facilities and to have a technological tool in Vaux which will make it possible to better respond to customer requests. This investment would have an immediate effect on the working conditions of the operators (reduction of hardship, improvement of safety), it would also have a positive ecological impact (reduction of waste and gas consumption). In the process, the management will do everything possible to increase production volumes at Magotteaux Liège SA (with the maintenance of the activities of ‘assembly in Mettac)”, continues management.

25% of staff threatened

This plan nevertheless provides for a possible reduction in the current workforce of 60 workers out of 211, i.e. more than 25% of the staff. The consultation and information phase of the collective dismissal procedure was therefore initiated. “We are fully aware of the emotion that this announcement can cause”says Laurie Detroux, “Plant Manager” Magotteaux Liège.

“Nevertheless, these projects are essential to stem the situation in which we currently find ourselves. We will ensure that this redeployment is carried out in the best possible way, in a spirit of openness and transparency. We will do everything to support the workers, those who would leave, like those who would remain.”