Manufacturing News

Ford may quit manufacturing before 2016

Ford Australia says sales figures could cause it to shut its Australian manufacturing operations in Broadmeadows and Geelong before the previously stated date of 2016.

AAP reports that, since nominating October 2016 as the likely dated for plant closures, Ford has cut 300 jobs.

Ford Australia boss Bob Graziano told reporters that the company will continue to sell cars in Australia and it would not close dealerships.

“We’ll continue to match our production with demand,” he said.

“If you are looking for a guarantee, there are no guarantees. It is our intent to work to (October 2016).”

Ford said in a statement that it will roll out several refreshes and new models by 2015. In addition, it will release some that were not expected to be released until 2016. These include the new Mustang and the Everest 4WD (which previously did not have a proposed release date).

In 2015, the new Mondeo will also be released locally for the first time. And later this year, the re-styled Focus and the final Falcon will be released. A final update to the Territory will be available in late 2014.

Ford has helped nine Victorian auto suppliers find work in Ford’s global operations and will continue to help others. In addition, the company will provide redundant workers with separation packages and will help some of them move to other jobs within the company.

The automotive company wants to become the country’s largest employer by 2018. It would aim to employ around 1500 employees in areas such as engineering and design.

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