Antwerp Union Files Lawsuit Against Opel

Just as expected, Opel is facing numerous problems after the company announced earlier this week its decision to shut down the Antwerp plant in Belgium. As we'we told you, several workers blocked the entrance in some parts of the factory but the dispute is now moving to the court. According to a report by Reuters, Belgian unions will file a lawsuit against the German brand for breaching a contract with workers.

"The relocation of the agreed small SUV models is the only reason for the intended closure of Antwerp...There is a pending lawsuit on this matter filed by the unions of Antwerp," Opel's European works council said in a statement on Tuesday according to the aforementioned source.

On the other hand, Opel defends itself by claiming that building an SUV at the Belgian plant was only a plan and the company hasn't signed a contract with local employees.

"It was not a commitment, it was a plan," Opel/Vauxhall CO Nick Reilly said in a statement.

General Motors announced in a statement earlier this week that it will close the Antwerp facility by end of the year, as the "necessary next step in rebuilding Opel".

“We fully understand the effect this announcement has on the Antwerp employees and their families and we sympathize with them,” said Opel CEO Nick Reilly.

“Many have been dedicated to the plant over generations and have done an excellent job producing great quality cars. The decision to announce this today, was not taken lightly; instead, it is the unfortunate result of the current business reality. We must make this announcement now so that we can secure a viable future for the entire Opel and Vauxhall operations.”