Scania to restructure bus production, close Słupsk body plant
Scania is shifting its bus strategy by ceasing bus body production at its Słupsk, Poland facility and focusing on chassis manufacturing. The company cites a weakened global bus market and profitability challenges.
Swedish truck and bus manufacturer Scania announced a significant shift in its bus production strategy, which includes the gradual phasing out of bus body production and the closure of its body plant in Słupsk, Poland, by the first quarter of 2024.
The decision stems from negative developments in the global bus market, characterized by declining orders and a sustained loss of profitability in the segment. Scania noted that while the market has stabilized since the pandemic, the recovery has been insufficient. Additionally, upcoming regulatory changes necessitate substantial investments in new technologies.
Scania will continue to manufacture bus chassis at its Słupsk facility, which houses a chassis production line. The company plans to offer complete bus solutions by collaborating with selected external bodybuilders, leveraging its modular system and global service network.
The Słupsk plant currently employs 1,047 people, with 847 in the body production unit and 200 in chassis production. Scania has committed to providing affected employees with support exceeding legal requirements, including outplacement services and retraining opportunities, as it enters into consultations with labor unions.