GERMANY – On October 17 Steelcase announced plans to close the plant in Durlangen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany and establishing a new manufacturing facility in Stribro near Pilsen in the Czech Republic.

This new plant will gradually take over the production of Durlangen, where 265 people are currently employed. With the move, the company expects cost savings in the amount of ten million U.S. dollars per year. According to the plans, the company’s move is to begin in spring 2014 and be completed within a year. The second German production facility of the company in the Upper Bavarian Rosenheim is not affected.

James Keane, Chief Operating Officer of Steelcase Inc., stated: “Our business in EMEA (Europe, Middle East, Africa) is essential. Therefore, we will take all necessary steps and make the necessary investment to deepen the relationship with our customers to increase our market share and return to profitability. It is very important for us to treat all affected employees fairly, especially in view of their long tenure in which they have placed in our company and our customers.”