Anticipating to the consequences of the corona crisis

Published on: Jul 10, 2020

We can conclude that the corona crisis has a significant impact on the automotive sector (our biggest market) and, therefore, on AWL-Techniek. In recent weeks, the forecast for 2020 en 2021 became more explicit for AWL. Due to the crisis, we are experiencing a sharp drop in turnover. Through intensive consultation with our Works Council, we have coordinated the intended plans to get through this crisis. This means that we as an organization are forced to downsize parts of our teams, with an organizational change as a result.

The organizational structure is being changed. The global organization will be managed centrally. From AWL Netherlands, we will serve our customers worldwide, with the necessary support from our branches. The downscaling means that many temporary contracts are not renewed and also critically examined. In total, it concerns approximately 10% of the indefinite contracts that are terminated. The organization has already been informed about our intentions. The plans will be further developed in the coming period.

"This crisis is impacting the world. In particular, for the automotive market, where we are largely active. To remain a financially healthy company, we are forced to take these steps. Cost reduction is necessary to be and remain competitive. A decision that you do not want to make, but have to make in this crisis. We are doing everything we can to help our colleagues find a suitable new job. That fits within the AWL culture", says Brand van 't Hof, CEO AWL.

We have built up an excellent international position in the market. Despite the impact of the corona crisis, the market will recover again. With our team, we will continue to focus on modularization within machine building. Especially the companies that can switch flexibly with their machines will get through this crisis. We have also successfully delivered projects in new markets. Such as robotized assembly machines and logistics automation for e-commerce. This offers opportunities for the future, on which we will focus.

Also, read the article: Our vision on the upcoming times.