Restructuring events
European Restructuring Monitor (ERM)
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.
Sick, a German technology company that designs and manufactures sensors and automation solutions, announced the reduction of 500 jobs across several sites in Germany. The cuts will affect locations in Waldkirch, Reute, Freiburg, Donaueschingen, Karlsruhe and Hamburg, with the first layoffs already occurring in January. The company, which employs 5,000 people, cited the need to lower costs amid changing competitive conditions to improve profitability. The restructuring is an internal restructuring driven by cost optimisation, and will commence in early 2026, with the full programme concluding by the end of the year. Negotiations between the company and the works council are currently ongoing.
Sickl stated that it aims to implement the job reduction scheme in a socially responsible manner. The trade union IG Metall criticized the decision and emphasized that the long term future of the company could not be secured by job cuts.
Eurofound (2026), Sick, Internal restructuring in Germany, factsheet number 300098, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://apps.eurofound.europa.eu/restructuring-events/detail/300098.