Wacker advances restructuring plan with 1,600 job cuts in Germany

Munich, Germany – Wacker Chemie has agreed a framework with employee representatives to implement the reduction of 1,600 jobs in Germany as part of its global 'Pace' cost-savings and efficiency programme.

The restructuring programme, launched in October last year, aims to reduce costs by more than €300 million annually and strengthen the company’s long-term competitiveness.

All structural measures under the programme are due to be completed by the end of 2027, Wacker said 8 May.

The planned reductions in Germany will be carried out through a voluntary programme that includes phased early retirement arrangements and severance agreements, with the company ruling out forced layoffs.

Employees in Germany will also make a temporary “solidarity contribution” until 2028 through a 4% reduction in working hours and pay.

The cuts will include 1,300 jobs at Wacker’s Burghausen site, 200 at Nuenchritz, 60 at the group’s Munich headquarters and another 50 across other German locations.

According to the company, the implementation plan includes measures such as consolidating production facilities, increasing flexibility in shift systems and 'transferring activities to international service hubs.'

ERJ has requested details on the impact of the cuts on Wacker's silicones operations.