A wave of mass layoffs continues in the Czech Republic. At the beginning of the year, four major companies laid off nearly 2,000 employees, and this trend may persist. Despite an overall increase in job vacancies in the second quarter, the country’s largest enterprises plan to downsize.
According to a survey by ManpowerGroup, 36% of companies with more than 1,000 employees are planning layoffs, while 31% of firms with over 5,000 workers also intend to cut staff. With over a million people employed in large corporations, the situation remains critical.
Recently Announced Layoffs:
Česká pošta – 1,000 employees
Spolana – 500 employees
Mitas – 270 employees
Dr. Oetker – 114 employees
Onsemi – 170 employees (effective April 1)
Experts attribute the rising unemployment rate (326,000 registered job seekers in February) to worsening conditions in the industrial sector, which is struggling with declining orders and the need for structural changes.
Despite the job cuts, the labor market remains stable, with 88,000 vacancies registered in February. However, many job seekers will need retraining, particularly in digital skills. Employment growth is expected in healthcare, finance, real estate, and IT. While some companies are expanding and hiring, economic uncertainty and reduced demand are forcing others to downsize.
