Hurricane Kristin Cripples Portugal's Plastic Mould Industry, Leaving Thousands Jobless
Storm Kristin, a powerful hurricane, has devastated Marinha Grande's plastic moulding industry, damaging factories and leaving machinery exposed. The disaster has exacerbated an existing crisis in a sector that supports thousands of local jobs and forms the backbone of Leiria's economy.
The hurricane tore through the Imoplastic Group's facilities, ripping away protective structures and leaving highly sensitive equipment worth hundreds of thousands of euros vulnerable to the elements. Many machines now show early signs of oxidation, rendering them unusable for current production orders.
Security teams have been deployed around the clock, braving freezing nights with battery-powered radios and portable grills. Their presence aims to prevent further losses, but the damage has already disrupted operations.
The plastic mould industry in Marinha Grande employs between five and six thousand workers, supplying parts to automotive and electronics manufacturers. However, Europe's ongoing automotive downturn had already weakened demand before the hurricane hit. Without significant government support, recovery for these businesses will be difficult.
Thousands of families now face an uncertain future as factories remain unable to fulfil contracts or restart production lines.
The combined impact of Hurricane Kristin and Europe's automotive struggles has left Marinha Grande's plastic mould sector in a precarious position. Factories remain at a standstill, contracts unfulfilled, and workers awaiting a solution to the growing crisis.
