SIPTU has confirmed that around 140 staff at KOSTAL, Abbeyfeale are to lose their jobs after the company told workers that it's to move a production line to China.
The news is not unexpected. There has been speculation since at least last March that the German-owned company intended to shift some of its production abroad. In October 2024, KOSTAL announced it was seeking 60 voluntary redundancies in Abbeyfeale.
Last October, the automotive and electronic parts manufacturer confirmed its decision to transfer production of on-board chargers from Abbeyfeale to another plant out of Ireland.
SIPTU says KOSTAL has informed Enterprise Minister Peter Burke of its decision.
The union says the consultation period between itself and the company will begin next week.
KOSTAL's Abbeyfeale base is a major employer in West Limerick and North Kerry; the factory currently has around 360 workers.
Its Mallow plant is also a significant employer in the Cork-Kerry region.
The company says it employs 800 in both plants.
