Honda announces proposal to cease production at its Swindon factory in 2021

Honda of the UK Manufacturing (HUM) has today informed associates (employees) of the proposal to close its Swindon vehicle manufacturing plant, at the end of the current model’s production lifecycle, in 2021. The plant currently produces 150,000 cars per year, and employs circa 3,500 associates. 

This proposal comes as Honda accelerates its commitment to electrified cars, in response to the unprecedented changes in the global automotive industry. The significant challenges of electrification will see Honda revise its global manufacturing operations, and focus activity in regions where it expects to have high production volumes.

Under this proposed restructure, HUM’s current role as a global manufacturing hub may no longer be viable. 

Consultation activity will begin today, and HUM will be working closely with its workforce, including the recognised trade union, Unite the Union, over the months ahead.

Katsushi Inoue, Chief Officer for European Regional Operations, Honda Motor Co., Ltd., and President, Honda Motor Europe said; “In light of the unprecedented changes that are affecting our industry, it is vital that we accelerate our electrification strategy and restructure our global operations accordingly. As a result, we have had to take this difficult decision to consult our workforce on how we might prepare our manufacturing network for the future. This has not been taken lightly and we deeply regret how unsettling today’s announcement will be for our people.”

HUM Director, Jason Smith, said; “We understand the impact this proposal will have on our associates, wider supplier base and the local community. We are committed to supporting associates to help them through this difficult time.”

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Contact details

For further information, contact Honda’s Press Office on 01344 851 800 or email huk.pressoffice@honda-eu.com

Editors Notes

Honda’s European HQ will continue to be located in Bracknell in the UK. It will be focused on serving the needs of its European customers.

Key Facts – Honda of the UK Manufacturing Ltd (HUM)

• Established in 1985
• Started operations in 1986 (Pre-delivery inspections)
• Began engine production in 1989
• Began car production in 1992
• Current workforce – 3,500 associates
• Cumulative car production – 3,507,862 (to end 2018)
• 2018 (calendar year) car production – 160,075
• Models currently produced:
  • Civic Hatchback
  • Civic Type R
• Production is currently exported to over 70 countries
• Production % split: UK 15％/ Europe 20％/ North America 55% / Japan 8% / Others 2%)

(based on 2018 results)

Honda of the UK Manufacturing timeline