In a challenging economic context and in the face of significant structural challenges, Samvaz SA is launching a consultation process today regarding the possible closure of the Bourg wood factory. This closure would result in the dismissal of 33 employees out of the company’s total workforce of 175. Our site dedicated to metal products (the Arena factory), which represents the core of our activities, is absolutely not affected by this measure. Its development and production activities will continue and remain the company’s strategic pillar.
The consultation process will last for 14 working days (with a minimum of 10 days required in the canton of Fribourg). The objective is to examine any proposals that affected employees may submit to limit or even avoid the planned dismissals or to mitigate their impact.
All suggestions received will be carefully reviewed by the company’s management.
Since its establishment in 1972, the Bourg wood factory has played a crucial role in the development of Samvaz SA, and we are considering its closure with great reluctance. However, several factors have led us to this difficult decision:
- A strong Swiss franc, increasing competition from foreign companies, and the removal of certain sector-specific subsidies have severely impacted the Swiss wood market. Unfortunately, our operations in this sector are no longer profitable.
- The scale of necessary investments—both to modernize the factory and to comply with increasingly strict regulations (environmental standards, noise protection, and quality norms)—raises concerns about the site’s long-term viability.
- The factory’s location, which was isolated at the time of its construction, is now in the middle of a residential neighborhood and causes disturbances for local residents.
Support for Affected Employees
We are fully aware of the human impact that the closure of the Bourg wood factory could have, and we are committed to providing the best possible support to our teams during this challenging period.
If the planned collective redundancies are confirmed, Samvaz SA will ensure favorable departure conditions for the affected employees.
Additionally, we want to assure you that we will do everything possible to maintain continuity in our wood-related activities during this transition period and to fulfill all ongoing orders.
We will keep you informed of the outcome of the consultation process, which is expected to conclude by March 7, 2025.
