Volvo itself highlights the reopening of its factories after a production stop due to the coronavirus. The Belgian employees can also get ready, because from Monday the production belts in Ghent will be running again.
Yesterday Automotive News reported that Volvo was busy reopening three factories: the Olofström parts factory, the Skovde engine factory and the car factory near Gothenburg. However, no mention was made of the other factories. Now Volvo itself comes with a statement. Volvo confirms the openings of these factories and it also appears that from next Monday, April 20, the factories in Torslanda and Ghent will also be restarted. Volvo made this decision after intensive consultation with unions.
In Torslanda, in addition to the staff in the factory, the office staff also get back to work. “Now that the situation allows it, we have a responsibility to our employees and suppliers to resume our activities as much as possible,” said CEO Håkan Samuelsson. During the closings of the past few weeks, all places have been prepared for new working methods that do not endanger the health of staff. For example, in places where no 1.5 meters of space was available between employees, additional protective measures have been taken. In addition, each staff member (on a voluntary basis) measures the temperature and the amount of oxygen in the blood.
Production in Torslanda and Ghent is adjusted to the available parts and the demand for new cars. As of Monday, May 11, the majority of personnel at the U.S. factory in South Carolina will have to resume their work. Volvo will continue to use the Swedish support package and the working time discount for all staff who are not yet allowed or unable to work.