Carinthian company employs more than three quarters with disabilities

More than three quarters of the 250 employees at ABC Auftragsfertigung, a contract manufacturing company in Carinthia, have a disability, ORF reported. The company has built an international reputation with more than 120 customers and operates at three locations.

ABC is one of eight inclusive businesses in Austria. As a contract manufacturer, it does not produce its own products but manufactures goods according to customer specifications, authorised signatory Johann Schmiedmeier said.

The company serves customers from a range of industries to maintain steady workloads and provide secure jobs. In plastics manufacturing, it works largely for the semiconductor industry, producing components used in computer-chip manufacturing and later in mobile phones and kitchen appliances.

Inclusive businesses must have at least 60 percent employees with disabilities, which can be physical or psychological, and must provide fair pay. Managing director Thomas Höbart said ABC pays all employees under the collective agreement for the metal industry, allowing them to lead financially independent lives.

The Carinthian state government and the Social Ministry provide financial support to the company. However, only additional costs related to disabilities are covered, to prevent distortion of competition. ABC also regularly advertises apprenticeships specifically aimed at people with disabilities.