The restructuring events database contains factsheets with data on large-scale restructuring events reported in the principal national media and company websites in each EU Member State. This database was created in 2002.
Severna Bulgaria; Severen tsentralen; Veliko Tarnovo
Location of affected unit(s)
Debelets
Sector
Manufacturing Manufacture of food and beverage Manufacture of food products 10.89 - Manufacture of other food products n.e.c.
New offshoring locations
Romania, Greece, Turkey
120 jobs Number of planned job losses
Announcement Date
24 January 2025
Employment effect (start)
1 August 2025
Foreseen end date
31 August 2025
Description
The British company Unilever, owner of the popular ice cream brand "Deni," plans to relocate its production from Bulgaria in August 2025. The decision will affect over 120 employees at the factory in Debelets, Veliko Tarnovo, who will receive compensation after the closure of the production facilities. The manufacturing will be moved to factories in neighboring countries such as Romania, Greece, and Turkey.
The main reason for this move is the growing shortage of skilled workers in the Bulgarian labor market. Unilever’s regional manager for Bulgaria, Strashimir Grancharov, stated that the lack of interest in working in the manufacturing sector, along with the unstable economic conditions in the country, led to this decision. Despite the relocation of production, Unilever will continue to offer its products on the Bulgarian market and maintain its offices in the country
Eurofound (2025), Unilever, Offshoring/Delocalisation in Bulgaria, factsheet number 202262, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://restructuringeventsprod.azurewebsites.net/restructuring-events/detail/202262.
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