Callebaut Stands by Layoff Plan, But High Cocoa Prices Have Tamed Impact

In February, Barry Callebaut announced plans to cut over 500 jobs in Belgium, with a particular focus on its branches in Wieze, Lokeren, and Halle. However, due to changes in market conditions such as high cocoa prices until the end of April, the impact now seems to be less significant.

In Wieze and Lokeren, the number of naked dismissals has been reduced from 62 to a maximum of 5. Meanwhile, in Halle, where originally 178 of the 480 jobs were at risk, signals are “hopeful.” The company mentioned that they can fully implement their plans in Wieze and are conducting constructive dialogue with their social partners. Discussions are still ongoing for white-collar workers and executives where 250 jobs are threatened.

The next works council meeting is scheduled for May 16th with further talks happening on May 29th and June 6th. The discussions in Halle are described as constructive where initially 159 blue-collar positions and 16 white-collar positions were set to be cut. Details about the agreement reached will only be shared once finalized.