Sapa Staa Announces Layoffs in Piedmont, Italy, Amidst Shifting Automotive Market
Airasca, Italy – Sapa Staa, a multinational company specializing in injection molding for the automotive industry, has announced plans to reduce its workforce in Piedmont, Italy, signaling a potential shift away from the region. The company, owned by the Affinita family of Arpaia, is implementing layoffs across its facilities in Airasca, Asti San Martino d’Alfieri, and Dronero, impacting over 100 employees initially, with the possibility of plant closures by 2027.
Union Concerns and Declining Orders
Fabio Catiello of Filctem Cgil expressed concerns over the declining order volume, stating that the company intends to reduce its workforce “in the most painless way possible.” The union fears a broader disengagement from the Piedmont region, particularly as Sapa Staa appears to be prioritizing other markets.
Strategic Shift Following Megatech Acquisition
Sapa Staa’s recent acquisition of Megatech, an Austrian automotive giant, has significantly increased its revenue, jumping from 300 million to 700 million. This acquisition has diversified the company’s customer portfolio, seemingly at the expense of its Piedmont operations. Sapa Staa initially entered the Piedmont region in 2018 with the acquisition of Selmat and its four factories, focusing on the production of bumpers for Iveco and Alfa Romeo models, including the Panda.
Disputes with Stellantis and Prior Solidarity Contracts
The company has faced increased disputes with Stellantis, with a clash in 2024 over supply prices leading to a temporary halt in deliveries to the Sevel plant in Atessa. A financial agreement was eventually reached, but the situation highlights the strained relationship. Prior to the announced redundancies, Sapa Staa had already implemented three renewals of solidarity contracts in Airasca and Asti.
Company Overview
Founded in 1974 by Angelo Affinita, Sapa Staa operates ten factories across Italy, Europe, and Asia, employing over 2,000 people. The company has received financing from the European Investment Bank (EIB) throughout its history. The current restructuring raises concerns about the future of 350 families employed by Sapa Staa in the region.
February 22, 2026