Ahlstrom Implements Personnel Reductions at Altenkirchen Plant in Germany

Ahlstrom Corp., Helsinki, Finland, reports that it concluded personnel negotiations concerning all personnel (160 people) at its Altenkirchen mill in Germany, and has begun implementing personnel reductions in two phases. Beginning last week, and through the end of 2009, the number of personnel will be reduced by 34 positions, impacting both blue-collar and white-collar employees. The second phase will take place in 2010 and could result in a further reduction of up to 30 positions. During this period, the mill will also continue to adjust the production volumes to the demand through a temporary layoff system available in Germany. The company will offer an outplacement service to laid off personnel. The Altenkirchen mill employs some 117 blue-collar and 43 white-collar employees. It is part of Ahlstrom's Technical Papers business area. The main production at the mill is sealing and shielding materials as well as base paper for calender bowls. Those specialty materials are used for automotive, building, and industrial applications.

TAPPI
http://www.tappi.org/