IKEA cuts 220 jobs at Wielbark plant

15 May 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

IKEA layoffs Poland: IKEA Industry will cut 220 jobs at its Wielbark factory amid falling orders and sector pressure.

IKEA Industry announced a planned staff reduction at its Wielbark factory in the Warmian-Masurian region. IKEA layoffs Poland will affect 220 workers, about 7% of the site, the company said.

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IKEA layoffs Poland: the facts

The Wielbark plant makes solid wood furniture and chipboard components. Moreover, the factory stands as a major element in the group’s supply chain. However, the firm will still keep the site operational. Consequently, the reduction affects selected roles and shifts. The company said it will consult unions during the process. In addition, the firm notified the Powiatowy Urząd Pracy in Szczytno.

Why the company made the decision

IKEA Industry cited a fall in orders and broad economic headwinds. Therefore, management decided to align production capacity with market demand. Moreover, the furniture sector faces higher costs and weaker consumer spending. Consequently, the firm sees the cut as necessary to protect long-term operations. However, executives emphasized that Wielbark remains important to the group.

Support measures and legal steps

The company pledged severance pay and a support package for leaving staff. In addition, IKEA Industry will offer job search help and career counselling. Moreover, the firm will work with local authorities to ease transitions. The local job office will handle registration and benefits. Therefore, affected workers should register at the Powiatowy Urząd Pracy in Szczytno quickly. In Poland, social security and health links matter. For example, ZUS refers to social insurance (ZUS). In addition, NFZ covers public health care (NFZ). Furthermore, expats use a PESEL number for administrative steps (PESEL). Finally, unions will try to negotiate terms and timing of departures.

For workers, the timeline matters. Consequently, employees should read notices carefully. Moreover, they should ask HR about final pay and accrued leave. In addition, they must check contracts for notice periods. Therefore, getting written confirmation helps when claiming benefits. However, language can complicate matters for non-Polish speakers. Consequently, seeking translation or legal advice can help.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: If you work in Poland and face redundancy, register at your local job centre (Powiatowy Urząd Pracy) to apply for benefits. In addition, inform ZUS for social insurance matters and NFZ for health coverage. Moreover, keep your PESEL number ready for administration. Finally, consider union advice and local legal counsel if your contract uses Polish terms.

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