Restructuring events
European Restructuring Monitor (ERM)
The restructuring events database contains factsheets with data on large-scale restructuring events reported in the principal national media and company websites in each EU Member State. This database was created in 2002.
Nike announced that it will cut 411 jobs in its Belgian logistics hubs in Laakdal and Ham. The cuts include 330 weekend workers and 81 logistics positions.
The restructuring is set to begin shortly after the announcement, with negotiations to start next week. The restructuring plan was presented to the works council, and negotiations with social partners will take place. Trade unions, including the socialist union BBTK, are involved and have publicly commented on the causes of the restructuring. The workforce reduction is largely a direct dismissal, but the company has also introduced voluntary exit schemes and early retirement options to offset the impact on employees.
The company cites the need to strengthen and streamline its European operations, centralise logistics, and automate processes as the main drivers behind the job cuts, while also responding to the long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on sales volumes.
Nike has been present in Belgium for more than 30 years and established its European Logistics Campus in Laakdal in 1994. The campus is the largest employer in the region, with nearly 5,000 employees.
** Updated, 29/04/2026 ** During a new special labour council meeting, Nike announced to the unions the plans to let go of another 325 jobs. This could result in 736 lay-offs in total, pending the negotiations with trade unions for a social plan for the workers affected.
** Updated, 23/05/2026 ** The management of Nike and the unions have concluded an agreement. A maximum of 371 forced redundancies will occur, out of the more than 730 announced jobs that were at risk. The layoffs take effect on June 30. A voluntary departure scheme will remain in effect for the next two weeks. All employees can apply for this, which may further reduce the number of forced layoffs.
** Updated, 30/06/2026 ** In total 372 employees will lose their job immediately and an additional 130 expected to follow in the coming months. To assist these affected workers in finding new employment, VDAB and partners have initiated a support program, including a job fair scheduled for September 24.
Eurofound (2026), Nike, Internal restructuring in Belgium, factsheet number 204617, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://apps.eurofound.europa.eu/restructuring-events/detail/204617.
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