The manufacturing plant was proposed to build the world’s first zero-emissions luxury vehicle
At least 100 jobs are reported to be at risk(Image: Richard Williams/WalesOnline)
More than 100 jobs are reportedly under threat at Aston Martin’s factory in St Athan, Vale of Glamorgan, as the luxury carmaker faces new trade tariffs in the US and slowing sales in China.
The company, which opened the Welsh site in 2019, said it has begun staff consultations but has not yet made a final decision on redundancies. Aston Martin said the plans were part of efforts to “strengthen the business” amid ongoing global economic challenges.
The luxury car manufacturer employs up to 700 people at its St Athan manufacturing plant.
King Charles, then Prince of Wales, visited the new Aston Martin Lagonda factory on February 21, 2020(Image: Chris Jackson/Getty Images)
A spokesman for Aston Martin said: “Aston Martin confirms that the company is taking further steps to strengthen its overall position in response to continued challenges in the global macro-economic environment including the sustained impact of US tariffs and weak demand in China.
“As part of our approach to driving operating leverage through disciplined cost management we are taking actions across our manufacturing sites which may affect contractor, fixed-term, and permanent roles subject to appropriate consultation with union representatives.”
Union officials called the situation “devastating”.
Unite regional officer Andrew Pearson said the union would begin talks with the company to try to reduce job losses.
The firm’s share price has fallen sharply over the past year reflecting weaker demand in key international markets.
Aston Martin recently warned it could lose up to £110m this year due to the tough economic climate.
It’s the second round of cuts at the St Athan site this year. In February 170 roles were axed as part of a cost-saving drive.
Production jobs and contractor positions are expected to be hardest hit in the latest review.
The Welsh Government said it was in contact with the company and ready to help affected workers.
Built on a former RAF base the St Athan plant was seen as central to Aston Martin’s growth when it launched in 2019, producing the company’s first SUV, the DBX, and future electric models.
But as economic pressures grow the future of the site — and the jobs it brought to south Wales — remains uncertain.
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