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Video: Robotics Manufacturer Kuka Cuts 350 Jobs
The Kuka Group generated order intake of EUR 3,305.3 million in the past financial year, 8.5% below the previous year's value. The main reason for this is the noticeable general economic slowdown in two of the focus markets: the automotive industry and the electronics industry. Orders were mostly received in Europe. Sales also fell by 6.8% to 3,242.1 million euros. Here, too, Kuka refers to the decline in the focus markets.
350 full-time positions are to be cut in 2019
In response, the group has launched an efficiency program. 300 million euros are to be saved by 2021. A cut in jobs at the headquarters in Augsburg is also associated with the savings. A total of 350 full-time positions are to be cut this year. The positions should predominantly fall into so-called indirect areas and, according to Kuka, should be socially acceptable.
"We are aware that this will not be an easy path," says CEO Peter Mohnen. “That is why we make the decisions with great care and in dialogue with the employee representatives. We are interested in Kuka's future."
Expected growth from Asia
Kuka expects demand to increase slightly in the 2019 financial year. The group expects growth above all in Asia. In contrast, Europe and America should only develop slightly positively. Uncertainties arise primarily due to the current political and global economic developments. The world's largest robotics sales markets, such as the automotive and electronics industries, are also affected. Kuka expects sales to increase slightly in 2019 as a whole.
