AR Packaging is in a period of sustained expansion, following the acquisitions of rlc packaging group and K+D. As part of its strategy to hold leading market positions in selected segments and continuously improve the operational excellence and cost-efficiency, the group is now investigating actions to optimise its operational footprint in Switzerland.
With the acquisitions, AR Packaging has increased its number of plants significantly in Central Europe. An analysis following the recent take-overs has shown the need to take actions in Switzerland. An investigation has hence been initiated, where one alternative is to focus production at the K+D plant in St. Gallen.
“We know that we can run successful plants in high cost countries such as Switzerland, provided that the infrastructure is set up efficiently,” says Harald Schulz, President and CEO of AR Packaging. “The plant located in Spreitenbach has not performed as expected for some time and one scenario is therefore to move a substantial part of the production from Limmatdruck l Zeiler. Having strong skill centres and site specialisation through focused technology and know-how increases our ability to lead future developments locations. We aim to uphold a solid basis for sustainable presence and optimised service to our customers.”
The alternative to discontinue production at Limmatdruck l Zeiler would result in a risk for mass layoff in accordance with Swiss law. AR Packaging is carefully considering the negative impact for the approximately 150 employees potentially affected in Spreitenbach and will offer employment at other locations where feasible. For employees without a direct solution, a social plan should also offer support in the professional repositioning.
The service units PAS Media and Brandkitchen, also located in Spreitenbach, are not impacted by the ongoing investigation.
