Airbus to create 600 new UK jobs
Airbus has pledged to create up to 600 jobs in the UK this year on the back of record 2011 orders.
The aerospace giant, which already employs more than 10,000 staff across the UK, said the new positions would probably be based at its Filton and Broughton sites.
It warned, however, that UK manufacturers must remain competitive on price.
Company president and ceo, Tom Enders revealed at a press conference in Hamburg today that Britain's GKN recently lost out on a parts contract to a Korean rival because it was not competitive enough.
Enders said the move did not signal a withdrawal from the UK, but was made in order to stay competitive against its rivals.
Airbus also announced today that it had achieved a record number of orders in 2011, spurred by demand for the A320neo.
Enders commented: "Airbus' record order intake is the result of our strategic decision for A320neo. With this innovation we established a new industry standard, appreciated by our customers and followed by the competition. With a solid backlog and an excellent cash position we are well prepared for the future."
