Salomon Launches Restructuring Program

Herzogenaurach/Annecy - Salomon, the "Freedom Action Sports" unit of the adidas-Salomon Group has launched a restructuring program to improve its profitability and further ensure long-term competitiveness.

By 2007 Salomon's ski production in France will be reduced to 35% from a current 55%, mainly by increasing production in Romania. In addition, product lines such as inline skates and snowboards will also be produced in China. The plan includes the reduction of a total of 160 jobs in France over the next two years. In close partnership with the unions, Salomon is committed to offering socially acceptable solutions to the employees via pre-retirement, job relocation and other measures.

adidas-Salomon is one of the global leaders within the sporting goods industry and offers a broad range of products with brands such as adidas, Salomon and TaylorMade in its portfolio. Salomon is the No. 1 winter sports brand with leading positions in product categories such as skis, bindings and ski boots. Annecy-based Salomon employs more than 2,800 people worldwide and over 1,700 in France. Worldwide, the adidas-Salomon Group has more than 16,750 employees.