The acquisition of Van Hool by Schmitz Cargobull and VDL heralds significant changes, with a considerable impact on its workforce.
- Schmitz Cargobull and VDL have forged a joint venture to acquire the bankrupt Van Hool, shaking the Belgian manufacturing landscape.
- The transition will result in the loss of 1,550 to 1,850 jobs, as Schmitz Cargobull and VDL restructure operations at Van Hool’s Koningshooikt site.
- Employees at Van Hool will all receive dismissal letters but can reapply for a reduced number of positions in the restructured organisation.
- The acquisition fended off competition from other bids, with plans to rejuvenate production facilities amidst challenging financial and legal circumstances.
The German trailer builder Schmitz Cargobull, in collaboration with the Dutch bus manufacturer VDL, has seized the opportunity to acquire Van Hool following its declaration of bankruptcy. This marks a pivotal moment in the Belgian industrial sector as Van Hool, a long-standing manufacturer of buses, coaches, and industrial vehicles, faces a major transition.
This takeover is set to have substantial repercussions on Van Hool’s workforce, with between 1,550 and 1,850 employees expected to lose their jobs. While Schmitz Cargobull intends to retain approximately 350 employees and VDL plans to retain between 300 and 600 staff, all 2,500 current employees will receive dismissal notices. Nevertheless, they will be eligible to reapply for the available roles as the companies streamline operations.
Founded in 1947, Van Hool has battled a hefty debt of €300 million, compounded by a persistent inheritance dispute involving its shareholders and the Van Hool family, leading to its insolvency. Despite these challenges, the successful bid from Schmitz Cargobull and VDL surpassed rivals, including West Flemish entrepreneur Guido Dumarey and Dutch company Vlastuin, with plans to construct a new production facility on the existing site in Koningshooikt.
Prior to the sale’s confirmation, Christophe Van Audenhove of the liberal trade union ACLVB expressed mixed sentiments regarding the news. ‘Workers at the plant have known for some time that any news will be bad news,’ he remarked, acknowledging a sense of relief among some employees who foresee future job security, despite prevailing disappointment.
Industry expert Gary Beecroft, from consultancy Clear International, provides insight into the strategic interest shown by Schmitz Cargobull in Van Hool’s trailer manufacturing capabilities. Although Schmitz historically lacked a focus on road tankers, the acquisition could afford them entry into this market segment, potentially revitalising production at the Belgian plant.
The acquisition of Van Hool by Schmitz Cargobull and VDL represents a significant reshaping of resources and personnel within the European manufacturing sector.
