The suspension of operations at the plants is due to a shortage of semiconductor components, which has already caused significant financial losses for global automakers.

At the plant in Kvasiny, where the Superb, Karoq, and Kodiaq models are assembled, Skoda maintains partial employment. The other models were produced at the main plant in Mlada Boleslav, which is currently idle. The second halted site in Vrchlabi was engaged in the production of DSG gearboxes for various brands within the VAG group.

The company's management assures that no staff reductions are planned. Most employees have been sent on leave, with 85% of their salary paid. Starting November 1, a new reduced schedule will be introduced, which will allow for more efficient use of core staff and facilitate the movement of employees between sites. Initially, reassignments will occur within a single plant, and if necessary, across all three production sites.

The pause in Skoda's operations will deliver a significant blow to the Czech economy. The company's plants employ about 180,000 people. The country's entire automotive industry accounts for 9% of GDP, provides 26% of industrial production, and 24% of exports.