Jaguar Land Rover, Employees Close to Settle Cost-Cutting Schedule

While being forced by local governments to preserve jobs, some companies search for alternative programs that could reduce costs without slashing workforce. Jaguar Land Rover is surely a good example in this matter as the company discussed a cost-cutting schedule with its workers and, according to Autonews, they are close to reaching an agreement.

JLR spokesman Don Hume confirmed the company proposed a deal to its workers but refused to unveil the cost-cutting options included in the plan. However, he did mention the company plans to reduce costs in the business and avoid additional job cuts. The automaker already fired 500 manufacturing workers in January, with an additional 150 employees expected to leave the company the end of April. Last December, Jaguar Land Rover slashed 850 workers.

“After several constructive discussions with unions we have reached agreement on a set of proposals that will now be put to union members,” Hume said.

Dave Osborne, an official with the UK trade union Unite, told Autonews that employees should accept the proposal as it's only a short-term plan, with most options set to expire in one to two years.

"We are in a crisis here through no fault of our own. The workforce has been a huge asset to the company in the past and will continue to be so in the future. We are pleased that we have been able to reach this agreement,” he commented on the Jaguar Land Rover proposal.