The German regional newspapers „Neue Westfälische“ and „Die Glocke“ report that the agricultural machinery manufacturer is starting the New Year with a shortened work schedule for its employees. This is in response to the ongoing crisis in the agricultural machinery market, where a number of manufacturers are experiencing a lack of sales.

AGCO/Fendt, „Krone“ and „Lemken“ have already done so, while „Claas“ itself temporarily suspended production of combine harvesters as recently as this summer.

According to „Agrarheute.de“, around 1 000 workers at the main „Claas“ plant in Harsewinkel will work reduced hours from 6-17 January. Production of combine harvesters, forage harvesters and tractors will be modernised there. No short-time working is currently planned at other „Claas“ sites.

For the financial year 2024, „Claas“ sales are down 18.7% (to €4.99 billion) compared to 2023. Consolidated net profit fell by 27% year-on-year (to €253.3 million).