Zalando closure in Erfurt triggers job placement for workers

Following the closure of the Zalando logistics center in Erfurt at the end of September, job placement services have commenced for the affected employees. Approximately 1,700 former Zalando staff members are currently registered as job seekers with the Mittelthüringen Employment Agency, a number expected to rise as notice periods expire.

Irena Michel, Managing Director of the Mittelthüringen Employment Agency, stated that the goal is to place as many individuals as possible directly into new roles, with a realistic target of finding employment for one-third of the workers within the next six months. Options such as further training and professional retraining are also being considered.

The workforce is notably international, comprising individuals from dozens of different nations, including workers from Eastern Europe and refugees from Syria and Nigeria. The agency noted that language barriers may present a challenge in the placement process. Despite these hurdles, there are currently around 600 open positions available in the regional logistics sector.