Orgalim issues statement to the EU Commission on maintaining supply chains and industrial production as part of tackling COVID-19

Orgalim represents Europe’s technology industries: companies that innovate at the crossroads of digital and physical technology. Orgalim industries develop and manufacture the products, systems and services that enable a prosperous and sustainable future. Ranging from large globally active corporations to regionally anchored small and medium-sized enterprises, the companies they represent directly employ 11 million people across Europe and generate an annual turnover of around €2,000 billion and a third of Europe’s manufactured exports. 

The following statement, which is fully supported by IFSA was communicated via EFECM, the European Federation of European Catering Manufacturers:

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Addressed to President of the EU Commission, Ursula von der Leyen
 
Subject: maintaining supply chains and industrial production as part of tackling COVID-19
  
Dear President,
 
The COVID-19 outbreak represents an unprecedented situation for Europe’s citizens, society and economy. We welcome the macro-economic and political measures that Member States and the EU have already agreed to help tackle the pandemic.
 
In these difficult times, a clear-headed focus is needed on the crucial role of Europe’s industry to support society’s needs and ensure Europe stands ready to tackle the socio-economic consequences of the crisis. Industry, and the technology sectors represented by Orgalim in particular, is already mobilised to ramp up the production of the scarce goods desperately needed to tackle the crisis, adapting production lines and supply chains to bridge critical gaps. Industrial supply chains are at the heart of maintaining continuity in our daily lives – from the supply of energy, water and food to sanitation and waste management, communications infrastructure and mobility. After the crisis, a strong industry will be essential to rekindle Europe’s economies and safeguard the prosperity and wellbeing of its citizens.
 
For all these reasons, we are calling for an unequivocal commitment by the EU’s leaders that, wherever possible, industrial production and related operations must be maintained throughout the COVID-19 crisis.  It is vital to prevent comprehensive industry shutdowns where companies can provide continuity in their operations while respecting the crisis management measures issued by governments. We also call for strong coordinated action to avoid limitations to the free movement of goods as much as possible. We recognise that short term measures need to be in place to control the current situation, and we support the particular focus on essential goods. However, further support is needed to ensure a continued broader supply of goods to maintain industrial production.
 
Clearly, the safety of employees, suppliers and customers remains paramount. Companies that maintain their production and related operations will have to ensure the application of the required distancing within their sites and adhere to the relevant health and hygiene measures, in close consultation with their workforce. Our members across Europe are committed to finding practical and responsible solutions, working closely with the relevant authorities and social partners.
 
We remain convinced that taking resolute action in a coordinated European approach is essential to manage the immediate medical needs and mitigate the wider socio-economic impact of COVID-19 in the EU. Industry stands ready to step up to help protect our people today and protect our economies tomorrow. We are at your disposal to discuss this further.
 
Rada Rodriguez
Orgalim President