Black Country manufacturing plant to close with the loss of 86 jobs

Leading global automotive seating supplier Adient has announced it will close its Black Country facility, which produces foam products for the automotive industry, amid "sustained structural and market challenges".

Today's announcement follows a formal collective consultation process with trade union and employee representatives.

The closure will result in 86 employees being made redundant by autumn this year - the company said.

It said the move is a direct response to "sustained structural and market challenges" - including declining production volumes and intensifying competition across the EMEA region, which have impacted the long-term viability of the facility, located in Hallens Drive, Wednesbury.

The decision stems from a consultation addressing "declining business volumes and structurally high operating costs" - against a backdrop of major transformation in the global automotive sector. 

The company said in a statement: "The decision follows a comprehensive consultation process that was initiated in February in response to sustained structural and market challenges affecting the long‑term viability of the facility. 

"The global automotive sector continues to undergo a profound and challenging transformation, driven by rapid technological change, evolving market dynamics, and geopolitical tensions. Across the EMEA region, production volumes have declined significantly since FY19, with no recovery to pre‑pandemic levels anticipated, while competitive pressure continues to intensify. 

"Within this environment, Adient’s manufacturing operations in the region remain under sustained pressure. At Wednesbury, declining business volumes and structurally high operating costs have adversely impacted on the site’s economic performance over an extended period. 

"Throughout the consultation process, Adient carefully evaluated alternative options, both internally and together with employee representatives. Despite these efforts, the structural and market pressures affecting the site ultimately proved beyond the scope of feasible and sustainable solutions. 

"As part of its broader efforts to adapt and optimize its manufacturing and organizational network, Adient has therefore taken the decision to close the Wednesbury facility, and 86 employee work contracts are expected to be terminated in line with the planned cessation of operations at the site by autumn this year." 

Adient said it would support affected employees through the transition and stressed the decision to close the site was not a reflection of the workforce's performance or commitment.

A spokesperson said: "Adient will work closely with employee representatives and relevant local authorities to provide appropriate support measures and enhanced severance arrangements, in line with local regulations and agreements. 

"We emphasise that this decision is not related to the performance or commitment of the Wednesbury workforce, who have demonstrated professionalism and dedication throughout a prolonged period of uncertainty. 

"Adient expresses its sincere appreciation to all employees for their continued efforts and commitment."