Printing firm Artoos in Belgium declared bankrupt, nearly 100 jobs at risk

The Brussels Enterprise Court has declared the bankruptcy of printing company Artoos, located in Kampenhout, Belgium. This decision places the jobs of nearly 100 employees in jeopardy, although the company had been facing difficulties for some time. The loss of a crucial contract with the Flemish government at the beginning of the year proved to be the final blow.

According to Jan Forier of the Christian trade union ACV, the company's downfall stemmed from its heavy reliance on a single major client. "The printing for the Flemish community was lost starting in January, and that essentially delivered the death blow to the company," Forier explained. While the unions were aware of the precarious situation, the speed of the bankruptcy still came as a surprise. Reports indicate that employees were informed of the news only one day after the official ruling.

“

The printing for the Flemish community was lost starting in January, and that essentially delivered the death blow to the company.

Artoos employed approximately 100 people, comprising about 60 white-collar workers and 40 manual laborers. There is a glimmer of hope for some, as 31 employees might transition to Antilope De Bie in Duffel, another printing company belonging to the Graphius Group. However, for the remaining 70 employees, there is currently no immediate prospect of new employment. Forier emphasized the emotional toll this takes, noting that "these are people who have often worked there for a very long time."

“

It goes to show that these are people who have often worked there for a very long time, which only increases the emotional impact.

Trade unions have expressed skepticism regarding the process used to select the 31 employees who could transfer. The fact that management already had a specific list of names the day after the bankruptcy declaration suggests the matter may have been in preparation behind the scenes. Furthermore, it is stressed that employees are not obligated to accept the offer in Duffel, especially if the daily commute to Antwerp province is not feasible.

The immediate priority for the social partners is ensuring a swift and fair resolution of individual employee cases by the appointed curator. "In a difficult situation like this, employees deserve clarity, respect, and fair treatment," stated an official press release. The unions have pledged to provide maximum support to the affected families in their job search in the coming weeks.

“

In a difficult situation like this, employees deserve clarity, respect, and fair treatment.