Heidelberger has announced a workforce reduction of approximately 450 positions at its Wiesloch-Walldorf site as part of a comprehensive future plan aimed at strengthening competitiveness and enabling key investments. This restructuring effort, agreed upon by Heidelberg, the Works Council, and IG Metall, aims to reduce personnel costs by over €100 million over the next three years.
The plan, effective immediately and lasting through December 31, 2028, guarantees a minimum workforce size of 3,500 employees at the site while ensuring investments in modern infrastructure, training, and technologies. The job reductions will be carried out in a socially responsible manner, leveraging demographic shifts and employee retirement options. The cuts will impact both production and administrative roles.
“This future plan is an essential step for Heidelberg to lay the foundation for sustainable growth,” said Jürgen Otto, CEO of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG. “By optimizing costs and focusing on our strategic initiatives, we are creating room for investments in future technologies, which will further solidify our position as a leader in innovation.”
The initiative supports Heidelberg’s growth strategy, targeting increased business in markets such as China and Asia, and a focus on digital printing, packaging, and automation. The company anticipates medium-term sales growth potential exceeding €300 million, driven by these strategic initiatives.
Despite the workforce reductions, Heidelberg emphasizes its commitment to being an attractive employer and a driver of innovation. The agreement also ensures a strong training quota for young employees and positions Wiesloch-Walldorf as a hub for future technological developments.
