Swedish bearings manufacturer SKF on Tuesday announced a consolidation and restructuring of various manufacturing, business and administrative functions in France. Consequently, manufacturing of slewing bearings would be moved from Avallon to St-Cyr-sur-Loire, resulting in the proposed closure of the Avallon factory.

The company said the transfer of production from Avallon to St-Cyr “enables a more competitive and flexible offer to customers, as well as the realization of synergies from the existing service center and logistics capabilities in Saint-Cyr.”

Kent Viitanen, president, bearing operations, said: “We have announced a number of factory consolidations during the year and whilst these are difficult decisions to take, they are necessary to ensure we can continue to meet the needs of our customers in terms of competitiveness, flexibility and quality. We are committed to working with our employees to ensure a smooth transition into training programs and new employment opportunities.”

The Avallon site currently has 140 employees and activities are expected to stop by the end of 2022. The restructuring of manufacturing, business and administrative functions in France is expected to impact approximately 110 employees.