Ford cuts back as sales tumble

Despite churning out some of the best cars money can buy these days, Ford is still feeling the heat of the sales slump - and is taking drastic measures to make sure it doesn't burn.

So, Ford plants in Spain, Germany and Romania will see sweeping cost cutting in a bid to keep the maker profitable until things get better for the global car industry. Ford sales were down by over 15 percent in January and February compared to the same months last year.

From May 1st, production hours in Ford's Spain and Germany plants will be cut - including going from three to two shifts per day in Spain. It is also considering ways of reducing 'surplus labour' at its factories; many of its German workers will go down to a four day week.

In addition, production lines for the Focus, C-Max and Kuga - as well as Ford's new EcoBoost petrol engine - are being moved around to make sure every one of Ford's plants is working as close to full capacity as possible.

John Fleming, Ford Europe's Chairman and CEO, said: “Cutting capacity, reducing costs and safeguarding our future product plans are essential actions for Ford of Europe to sustain a viable business for the future.”

Mark Nichol