Mass layoffs at Agfa threaten 530 jobs amid declining film production

Film manufacturer Agfa has announced a major restructuring at its plant in Flanders, putting 530 jobs at risk as demand for traditional film products continues to decline. The latest round of cuts will affect both production and administrative staff. 

In recent years, Agfa has struggled with decreasing orders for its film products. The job cuts, according to the company, are needed to “adapt spending to the market reality”. Agfa wants to save 50 million euros over the next three years. 

The liberal union ACLVB has called for a crisis council and urged for industry-wide collaboration to prevent further erosion of Belgium’s industrial base. ACLVB president Gert Truyens said the layoffs were part of a larger industrial crisis affecting other major employers, including vehicle manufacturers Audi and Van Hool. 

The union is advocating for measures to make Belgium’s industry more competitive globally, including a fairer tax climate and increased public investment.

Agfa has said it will work to minimise forced layoffs. It is considering options such as voluntary exits and redeployment within the company. 

The site in Mortsel, Antwerp province, however, will not disappear. It is set to play a role in Agfa’s newer ventures, including green hydrogen production, which the company hopes will create growth opportunities in the future.

^{#FlandersNewsService | Workers at the Agfa-Gevaert headquarters in Mortsel © BELGA PHOTO KRISTOF VAN ACCOM}