Kalmar, part of Cargotec, plans to consolidate its assembly operations in Europe. In order to improve operational efficiency and ensure long term competitiveness in the global markets, Kalmar plans to transfer the production of forklift trucks from Sweden to Poland, invest in new, state of the art premises in Sweden and transform the operations in Southern Sweden into a Business, Innovation and Technology Centre.
The new Business, Innovation and Technology Centre in Ljungby, Sweden would focus on strengthening Kalmar's expertise in digital business development, research and development, prototype production and testing of mobile equipment. Additionally, Kalmar is planning to launch a digital business development program in collaboration with Linneaus University in Southern Sweden.
According to the plans, the forklift truck production that is currently located in Lidhult, Sweden would be transferred to Kalmar's assembly operations in Stargard, Poland. The transfer would take approximately two years and lead to the gradual closing of the operations in Lidhult. To implement the plans, Kalmar begins negotiations with the labour unions. Approximately 190 employees in Sweden would be affected by the change, and Kalmar will provide them support in competence development and assistance in finding new job opportunities.
Kalmar employs currently approximately 350 people in Lidhult and Ljungby, Sweden, and approximately 320 people in Poland.
Cargotec is a leading provider of cargo and load handling solutions with the goal of becoming the leader in intelligent cargo handling. Cargotec's business areas are Kalmar, Hiab and MacGregor. Cargotec's sales in 2015 totalled approximately EUR 3.7 billion and it employs almost 11,000 people.