Ford Sollers, a joint venture between the US carmaker Ford and Russian automobile maker Sollers, is planning to cut down production at its Vsevolozhsk plant near St Petersburg, Russia.
During August and September 2013, the production at the facility will be suspended for 20 days, while from 30 September the number of shifts will be reduced to two.
Ford Sollers said in a statement: "In response to the market, Ford Sollers continues to grow production of SUVs and commercial vehicles, to grow its presence in these fast growing segments."
According to the JV, the move comes after witnessing drop in demand for C-segment models compared to rise in SUV demand, while the plant produces models including Ford Focus and Ford Mondeo, while no SUVs are currently being built.
As part of the plans, Ford Sollers has sought union representatives to carryout discussions regarding the reduction of employees from its overall staff of 2,700.