Electrolux

Electrolux announced a European reorganization that includes confirmed end of refrigerator production at its Jászberény, Hungary factory—expected to affect about 600 local employees—and a proposed closure of the Cerreto d’Esi, Italy plant that aimed to eliminate more than 1,700 positions. Combined, the two processes could potentially affect more than 2,300 workers, although the Italian plan has been suspended for 50 days while the company, government and unions negotiate alternatives. The company cited stagnant demand, price pressure and competitiveness challenges in Europe as drivers for the restructuring and expects a non-recurring restructuring charge of about 600 million Swedish crowns. Electrolux says it will continue to meet refrigeration demand through other factories and partners, and the final outcome depends on negotiations, possible transfers, voluntary programs and other social protection measures.

Electrolux announced a retooling of its Anderson, S.C. plant following a long-term North American partnership with Midea that will shift the facility from refrigerator production to laundry equipment. The retrofit will require a layoff of more than 1,200 workers at the Anderson plant, with plans to rehire as many as 1,200 employees back when production resumes in the first half of 2027. Some workers received severance while others have not; local officials are hosting job fairs and assisting laid-off employees who have found other local manufacturing jobs. The change is part of three joint ventures with Midea aimed at reorganizing food-preservation and refrigerator operations in North America and leveraging Midea’s manufacturing model to reduce costs and improve efficiency.