Volkswagen de México has announced an adjustment to its manufacturing capacity at its Puebla assembly facility, the company’s largest plant in Mexico, citing a “challenging context” across the global and North American automotive industries.
To align its assembly volume with current demand in key markets, the German automaker will indefinitely eliminate one of the three work shifts in the production segment dedicated to the Tiguan SUV and Jetta sedan. Local reporting indicates the shift slated for removal is the third shift, which operates during the night.
Regarding the workforce impact, official and unofficial reports present varying estimates:
Official Corporate Statements: Volkswagen did not specify the exact number of affected employees in its original notice, nor has it clarified whether workers will face relocation or severance.Varying Impact Estimates: One report indicates the reduction will directly affect nearly 786 workers, while local media reports and unofficial sources estimate the figure could reach between 1,300 and 1,350 employees.
The Independent Union of Workers of the Automotive Industry Volkswagen of Mexico (SITIAVW) issued a formal statement on Aug. 31, 2026, firmly rejecting the unilateral actions and dismissals. The union stated it has never agreed to, validated, or consented to staff adjustments or layoffs. According to its executive committee, SITIAVW offered production alternatives to management in May, which were not adopted. The union is evaluating current conditions to present a package of technical proposals, an activity plan, and official actions while calling on Volkswagen, federal and Puebla state governments, and industry leaders to protect local employment.
This operational trim follows broader industry shifts and economic headwinds: