Honda workers march against decision to close plant in UK

The closure of the factory will result in the loss of nearly 3,500 jobs. It is also estimated that this closure will affect around 15,000 workers in the supply chain across the UK

April 07, 2019 by Peoples Dispatch
Honda plans to close down the plant by 2021.

Hundreds of workers and their families marched on March 30 in Swindon, United Kingdom, demanding that Honda company authorities reconsider their decision to close down a car manufacturing factory in the town by 2021. The closure of the factory will result in the loss of nearly 3,500 jobs. It is also estimated that this closure will affect around 15,000 workers in the supply chain across the UK.

Steve Turner, Unite’s assistant general secretary for manufacturing, said, “Unite is determined to fight to keep Honda in Swindon. This is a world class plant with a loyal, dedicated workforce that have earned and deserve a secure future. And it’s not just Honda workers we are fighting for. We have an extended supply chain dependent on the plant, and we know from previous experience that when one skilled manufacturing job goes, four more follow elsewhere in the economy.”

Meanwhile, The Guardian reported that car manufacturer BMW has plans to take over the property if Honda leaves the site by 2021. They are waiting for the final outcome of the Brexit debate before finalizing their plans.

Honda announced its decision in February 2019 as part of its global restructuring plans. The factory in Swindon is also Honda’s only car factory in the European Union.