EQS-News

VARTA AG: VARTA AG plans capital increase and comprehensive restructuring concept - Seite 2

 

The goal of further restructuring measures is to return to a stable growth path. To this end, an adjustment of production and structural costs is planned, which also includes personnel measures. The company management will hold talks with the works council in the near future on the concrete form of these measures. In addition to structural and organisational optimisation, VARTA is focusing on increased efficiency in internal processes. Central supplier management is intended to expand the supplier base and achieve the best possible procurement costs. Additional savings are to be realised by revising administrative processes and focusing marketing activities.

 

The measures are intended in particular to increase profitability in the areas of micro batteries, small lithium-ion button cells (CoinPower) and household batteries (Consumer Batteries). At the same time, VARTA is consistently expanding its customer base. The company is currently in concrete negotiations with new customers, particularly in the CoinPower area.

Dr Markus Hackstein, Speaker of the Executive Board of VARTA AG: "With the restructuring concept we have presented, we are maintaining a balance between necessary restructuring measures and the development of our growth potential. The current economically challenging situation requires clear steps in order to be able to operate successfully and profitably again. Through the comprehensive measures, we are stabilising the company and securing the innovative strength of VARTA AG in the long term.  Unfortunately, it is unavoidable that this procedure also involves savings in personnel costs. In view of the current economically volatile times, we are extremely aware of our responsibility towards our employees. We have therefore offered the works council to immediately begin talks on the form of the concrete measures."

 

Dr Michael Tojner, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of VARTA AG: "The restructuring concept secures VARTA's future viability. The implementation of the measures is not easy, but it is necessary to return to the path of success. As a traditional brand known for quality and innovations Made in Germany, the company is already strongly positioned to grow with and in the future markets of energy transition and e-mobility. With the targeted capital increase and the operational and financial measures now in place, we are creating the conditions for VARTA to fully play to these strengths again."