Thanks to the detailed preparations, the announcement day ran without a hitch. With management being present in person and via clear, transparent messaging the company was able to convince its audiences (unions, authorities, media and in particular staff) that the closure of the factory, which was technially no longer viable and too small, was unavoidable.
On the back of the trust which was thus established, in the following weeks the company was able to successfully complete negotiations with the unions for a social plan. Staff, who were being supported to find a new job, continued to be motivated to work in the factory till its closure at the end of 2006.
