Viega to Cut 81 Administrative Jobs Amid Economic Challenges, Insolvency Hits 150 Employees in Rheda-Wiedenbrück

Viega, a major heating systems company based in Attendorn, is planning to reduce its workforce by cutting 81 jobs, primarily affecting administrative staff. The company currently employs around 1,250 people at this location. Production and logistics departments will remain unaffected by this restructuring. The job cuts are part of Viega's efforts to adjust its cost structure in response to rising expenses and subdued demand. CEO Markus Brettschneider described the decision as "difficult but necessary," while the works council chairman Björn Drexelius acknowledged the hardship: "Every dismissed employee is one too many. But no one was left in the dark." Severance agreements under favorable conditions have been offered to affected employees. Despite these cuts, all planned investments in Viega's German sites in South Westphalia, Thuringia, and Saarland will continue as planned. Additionally, the IG Metall union in the Olpe district has stepped in to advise the affected workers.

Meanwhile, in Rheda-Wiedenbrück, around 150 employees lost their jobs due to a company insolvency. Although details on the specific company were limited, the news reflects ongoing economic pressures affecting German firms and employees alike.

These developments highlight the challenging landscape German companies face in 2026, balancing cost pressures and demand challenges with maintaining operations and supporting staff where possible.