Announcement of Commencement of Union Consultations Regarding Planned Production Withdrawal from Newark-on-Trent District, UK
NSK has begun union consultations for the planned withdrawal of production from its Newark-on-Trent facilities in the UK.
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- 📰 Published: April 1, 2026 at 22:46
NSK Ltd. (Headquarters: Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director and CEO: Akihisa Ichii; hereinafter "NSK") announced yesterday that its European production subsidiaries, NSK Bearings Europe Ltd. and NSK Precision UK Ltd., have proposed to the labor unions to withdraw production from the Newark-on-Trent district in Nottinghamshire, Central UK (hereinafter "the district"), and have commenced consultations.
The company is advancing structural reforms in its European business. The European business has faced challenges with the profitability of locally produced goods, and we have been promoting structural reforms, including withdrawal from unprofitable businesses and reorganization of production bases. The consideration of withdrawing production from the district is part of this effort. Moving forward, we will carefully consult with stakeholders regarding the withdrawal from the district, and if the withdrawal is decided, we aim to complete it by the end of March 2027, undertaking necessary initiatives to support the approximately 220 employees who will be affected.
Regarding the impact of this matter on business performance, it is difficult to accurately forecast figures at this time. We will promptly announce the impact after a thorough assessment.
Under Section 139 of the UK Employment Rights Act 1996 and Section 188 of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992, if an employer proposes to make 20 or more employees redundant within a 90-day period at one establishment, it is obligated to consult with recognized independent trade unions about the proposed redundancies and the reasons for considering them.
◆ Overview of the Sites
Location: Newark-on-Trent district, Nottinghamshire, UK
NSK Bearings Europe Ltd. Newark Plant
Products: Precision Bearings
Founded: 1900 (Became part of our group in 1990 through the acquisition of UK UPI Ltd.)
Employees: 219
NSK Precision UK Ltd.
Products: Precision Machinery Related Products
Founded: 2003 (Spun off from NSK Bearings Europe Ltd.)
Employees: 0 (Employees belong to NSK Bearings Europe Ltd.)
■ About NSK
Since producing Japan's first bearings in 1916, NSK has created various innovative products and technologies, including bearings, automotive components, and precision machinery products, for over 100 years, supporting the development of global industries. Expanding overseas in the early 1960s, NSK now has bases in approximately 30 countries, ranking third globally in the bearing sector and leading the world in ball screws, electric power steering, and other products.
Our corporate philosophy is to contribute to a smooth and safe society through MOTION & CONTROL™, aiming to preserve the global environment and strengthen connections between people across borders through global activities. Towards 2026, we have set NSK Vision 2026 "Creating New Motion," aiming to co-create value that meets societal expectations and achieve both social contribution and corporate development.
FAQ
Why is NSK withdrawing from the UK?
As part of its European business restructuring and profitability improvement, NSK is withdrawing from unprofitable operations.
What will be the impact on employees?
Approximately 220 employees are expected to be affected, and the company plans to provide necessary support.
When is the withdrawal expected to be completed?
If the withdrawal is decided, it aims to be completed by the end of March 2027.