Holden is bringing back the second work shift at its Vehicle Operations facility in Elizabeth, South Australia. The second shift, which will go in effect on November 15, will return all employees on alternating working patterns back to full time employment.
“Our team was relieved to hear the news today. The last 18 months have been very tough for our industry, but bringing back a second shift and returning employees to full time work is an important step in rebuilding our manufacturing business,” said Holden Manufacturing Operations Executive Director Martyn Cray.
Holden went to a reduced single shift operation in April 2009 due to a severe reduction in demand caused by the global financial crisis. One of the main reasons for the demand decline – estimated to be nearly 50,000 units – is the discontinuation of the Pontiac brand in the United States (which – sadly – meant the end of the awesome G8 sport sedan).
Under the reduced shift pattern, employees alternated work, varying from one week on – one week off to one week off in twelve weeks.
The plant is currently manufacturing pilot vehicles for the new locally-built Holden Cruze (Chevrolet Cruze with Holden grille/badges) and is gearing up for the new Series II Commodore that will be launched “in the coming months,” according to Cray.
Holden plans on hiring a small number of employees to support the second shift in the near future, with the potential to increase employment in line with long-term plant activity.
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