City manager, Kristina Sundin Jonsson: "We understand that this news is devastating for those affected."
UPDATE: 18:30
Norran contacted Northvolt for comment on the recent negotiations. Nathalie Bruno, a spokesperson for the company said:
– While these discussions are never pleasant, they are necessary to ensure the company's future. Negotiations in Västerås, Stockholm, and Skellefteå's white collar sector have been concluded. We're currently negotiating with other workers in Skellefteå.
– The potential job losses in Skellefteå are regrettable. We'll do our best to assist those affected in their job search. However, these difficult decisions are essential for the company's long-term viability and its role in promoting a green transition.
Regarding the unions' criticism about time pressure, Bruno stated:
– We appreciate the unions' cooperation. While we understand their concerns, these negotiations needed to be concluded promptly to allow us to finalize our strategic review.
– The strategic review is crucial for the company's future. Determining the necessary workforce size is a key component of this process.
– We're working to conclude negotiations for the remaining affected services as soon as possible.
– Our priority now is to support the employees who have been impacted. We're committed to helping them find new jobs within the municipality.
UPDATE: 14:10
– The past month has been marked by intense negotiations and tough decisions for our elected officials, who have faced immense time pressure. While we've been critical of Northvolt's choices, these difficult steps are necessary to safeguard the company's future, explained Shaneika Jeffreys, vice president of the Unionen club at Northvolt.
– The uncertainty has been a source of anxiety for many. We're pleased to have concluded the negotiations, so that our affected members no longer have to wait for a final decision from the company.
UPDATE: 13:58
City manager Kristina Sundin Jonsson says this announcement allows the municipality to move forward with more concrete plans.
– Now that we have a specific number, we can move forward with more concrete planning. Working with Arbetsförmedlingen, we'll conduct a survey to identify the affected individuals.
The municipality will collaborate closely with other parties, particularly Arbetsförmedlingen to address this situation, according to Sundin Jonsson. One initiative includes joint events where job seekers can connect with companies seeking workers.
– We understand that this news is devastating for those affected. While the warning period has caused significant anxiety, we're committed to implementing various initiatives to mitigate the impact and support those affected.
UPDATE: 13:32
More than 300 workers, mainly white-collar staff, are being laid off from Northvolt in Skellefteå, after negotiations between the employer and the white-collar unions, Unionen, Ledarna and Sveriges ingenjörer.
White-collar workers who are employed in Stockholm and Västerås will also lose their jobs.
In total, it will be about 180 white-collar staff who will be made redundant from Northvolt One in Skellefteå.
158 people who work for Northvolt Expansion are also affected: of these there are 124 in Skellefteå, 20 in Stockholm and 14 in Västerås.