'Workforce restructuring' | GM to layoff more than 1,600 workers

General Motors has provided a reminder that US layoffs are not restricted to the tech sector, announcing a significant “workforce restructuring” plan at its Fairfax Assembly Plant in Kansas, shedding nearly 1,700 employees as it pivots towards electric vehicle production.

The firm issued a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) detailing a two-phase layoff strategy. The first phase, commencing November 18, will see 686 full-time employees temporarily laid off and 250 temporary workers permanently released.

A second wave, scheduled for January 12, 2024, will place an additional 759 full-time staff on temporary layoff. The measures are linked to a planned production pause of the Cadillac XT4 luxury SUV at the facility.

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The restructuring aligns with GM's $390 million investment in the plant, preparing it for future electric vehicle production. The company anticipates resuming full operations by mid-2025, with plans to manufacture both the Cadillac XT4 and Chevrolet Bolt EV on a single assembly line.