Ekornes

A total of 111 Ekornes employees have been laid off and 62 are on leave as a result of a weakened order reserve. Previously, it was notified that 180 could be dismissed and 80 be sent on leave.

- We are glad that this was less dramatic than expected for Ekornes and employees, says CEO Nils-Fredrik Drabløs.

The reason is a controlled cutback on overtime, and natural retirements.

After the dismissals, Ekornes still has 1300 employees in 6 production plants in Norway. They produce around 1,400 Stessless seats every day, in addition to the Ekornes Collection sofas and Svane mattresses.

Helping find new jobs

The commitment and capability of collaboration among the employees, has been tremendous. That said, there is still a difficult situation among those who have lost their jobs or are on leave. Ekornes still aim to take back in those who are on leave, and provide all those laid off with new job in Ekornes, says Drabløs.

Ekornes has a partnership with NAV, the Norwegian employment office, and have also used their own resources to help those laid off find a new job.

Now looking forward past the recession, Ekornes continues with significant investments in marketing, product development and in the factories. The goal is to emerge from the financial crisis with an improved market position, and to improve competitiveness.