European competition authorities have given approval for VDL’s takeover of Van Hool, Belgian newspaper De Tijd reports, quoting words from trustee Jeroen Pinoy: “Everything could be finalised by the end of this week. At least that is the target. There are still some points and commas to be made, although legally they are not unimportant of course”.

Van Hool announced the plan to stop production of city buses (and relocating business in Macedonia) on 11th March 2024. Later on, the company asked for protection from creditors and, on 8th April, was declared bankrupt. VDL – Schmitz Cargobull’s bid has been chosen by trustees in Van Hool’s case as the best fit to ensure continuity in the company on 10th April 2024.

De Tijd adds that “How many people VDL will eventually employ in Koningshooikt, and what exactly the company will build there, will only become clear once the takeover is officially complete. Early this year, VDL said it would be able to retain 300 to 600 jobs”.

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