A storm is coming in the Tyki car factory Stellantis, formerly known as FCA Poland. The company's board announced plans for mass layoffs that could affect up to 740 people. What is behind this dramatic decision, and what will the consequences be?
The factory in Tychy, one of the largest production plants in Poland, specializes in the assembly of popular car models. They are currently produced there including Alfa Romeo Junior, Fiat 600 and Jeep Avenger. However, as of March 2026, production will be limited – the company resigns from the third shift, which will directly translate into a reduction of jobs. Trade unions are warning that the entire crew of this change will lose their jobs, and together, around 740 workers will be included in the voluntary leave programme.
The reason for these cuts is the continued decline in demand for cars produced in the plant. The Management Board of Stellantis stresses that the lack of new orders and the difficult situation in the automotive market force such steps. ‘Exemptions the group is to be completed after the procedure provided for by the law is exhausted by 30 April 2026," the company's communication states. The talks with the trade unions are due to begin in mid-January, but the atmosphere is tense. Workers' representatives are concerned that this is only the beginning of problems, and further reductions may come in the future.
It's a real blow to Tychów and surrounding towns. The factory employs thousands of people and is a key employer in the region. Exemptions could affect the local economy, increase unemployment and weaken the supply chain. The inhabitants are already expressing concern – many of them have families who stay from work in the plant. "This is a disaster for hundreds of families," comments trade unionists.
What's next? The company ensures that the process will be conducted on a voluntary basis, with the possibility of briefing and support for outgoing employees. However, industry experts indicate that this is a symptom of a wider crisis in the European automotive sector, due, inter alia, to the transition to electric vehicles and global competition. Will Stellantis find a way to revive production in Tychy, or will there be any more bad news? Yeah. history can have far-reaching consequences for the whole Polish economy.
Source: Weekly Solidarity
