Webasto secures 1.2 billion euros: future for Neubrandenburg jobs!

Webasto secures 1.2 billion euros: future for Neubrandenburg jobs!

Neubrandenburg will breathe a sigh of relief: the automotive supplier Webasto announced positive news. Recent reports confirm that management is not planning any further job cuts. This means the team remains secure in the company's modern logistics center with around 700 employees in the region. This stability comes at a critical time, as the company was recently affected by an acute crisis.

The problem is not just at Webasto, but in the industry in general. According to a study by Oliver Wyman on behalf of the VDA Many automotive suppliers are faced with existential threats. High interest rates and strict loan requirements are putting a huge strain on companies. Trust between banks and suppliers has weakened, and many complain about worsening financing options.

Secure financing for the future

However, Webasto has found a way out of the misery. The company secured loans totaling 1.2 billion euros, which are planned for the ongoing transformation over the coming years. This financing was secured through negotiations with owners and major customers, so the transformation should be completed by 2028.

CEO Jörg Buchheim underlines the positive development: “Thanks to this planning and financing security, we are optimistic about the future.” CRO Johann Stohner also highlights the constructive negotiations that led to a comprehensive solution and support from all stakeholders.

Challenges in the industry

Despite this progress, the industry remains tense. The study results from the VDA show that 66% of the suppliers surveyed had difficulties accessing financing in the last three years. The challenge of transforming to electromobility requires high investments, while companies' margins are historically low. Difficult access to credit and increased interest rates increase the financial pressure. Many companies – especially smaller ones – feel strongly affected by the financing conditions.

Webasto is aware of these risks and has taken measures to survive in this volatile landscape. The company remains the world market leader in roofing systems and has specialized in actively addressing the challenges of the industry.

Overall, the situation in the automotive supply industry remains tense, but Webasto's positive steps provide a ray of hope. It remains to be hoped that many companies in the region and beyond can benefit from similar successes.