Spyker moves car production to Britain (update)
20-11-2009
Luxury car maker Spyker is to stop manufacturing its sports cars in the Netherlands and is shift production to its parts supplier CPP in Britain.
The relocation from Zeewolde to Coventry is expected to be completed by the end of this year, Spyker said.
Spyker CEO Victor Muller told the Telegraaf the move will ensure the company's future. 'In challenging times, small manufacturers like Spyker have to find ways to reduce costs and improve efficiency,' he said.
Muller told the paper he expected to book 'substantial' cost savings and a 'considerable' improvement in efficiency through the move.
Jobs
According to Nos tv, some 45 jobs will go in the Netherlands but some staff will relocate to the English town, which is at the heart of the British car making tradition.
The bourse-listed company produced 43 cars in 2008 and has just launched a new car, the C8 Aileron, which costs around €200,000 for a basic model.
FNV union spokesman Herbert Romer told the Telegraaf the move is a loss for the Netherlands. 'Not only are 45 people losing their jobs but the Netherlands is losing a significant car brand,' he said.
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