As the current economic climate continues to sting businesses, Toyota Manufacturing UK has announced plans the reduce staff working hours by 10 per cent, helping the Japanese car manufacturer to reduce costs.

The deal, which has been agreed with Trade Union 'Unite', will see staff at the two sites in Derby and North Wales cut their working week to four and a half days, but will not see staff paid for this lost time.

The arrangement is set to start from the 1st April 2009 and last for approximately a year. A spokesperson for 'Unite' has recommended that their members accept the controversial deal to help safeguard their long-term jobs.

While the British arm of Toyota are struggling, parent company Toyota Motors have said that they are likely to be able to offer their workforce in Japan a bonus package equal to 12,611 per worker this year.

A spokesperson for Toyota Manufacturing UK said, "During this time we will continue to monitor the market and company situation closely. We believe the measures we have announced give us a greater opportunity to maintain employment through the difficult period."

However, in Ireland, a cash back promotion on purchased cars that has been launched is proving a great success with their customers. Toyota Ireland say that their 'customers have responded to the exceptional value for money that is available' since the start of the offer on January 16th 2009. In fact, the deal has been so popular; it has been extended until March 31st 2009 from all their authorised dealers.

The promotion offers people money back when they buy certain models of Toyota cars, money that they can then put towards their motor insurance payments.

Customers purchasing the all-new Toyota Yaris will receive a €1,000 refund, whilst those buying an Auris can expect to benefit from a payment of €2,000. However, those that choose the seven seated Toyota Verso will enjoy a cash back payment of €3,000 as will people purchasing the Rav4 model. On top of the money back Rav4 customers will get, those that buy the petrol model will also have 12 months free road tax.

Toyota Ireland spokesperson, Dave Shannon said, "Toyota Ireland continues to offer our customers great value for money for the most popular and trusted cars in Ireland. This offer is limited so contact your local dealer if you are considering buying a 2009 Toyota to avail of this offer."