Goodyear plans to close plant in Fulda: 1050 jobs affected
The tire manufacturer Goodyear plans to close its plant in Fulda, with around 1050 jobs in production to be cut. "This is a difficult but necessary decision to reduce overcapacity and bring our production structure in line with demand," the company announced on Thursday. Tire production at the Fürstenwalde plant in Brandenburg is also to be gradually discontinued by the end of 2027. This would affect 750 employees.
The plant in Fulda is to be closed by September 2025. "This plan is subject to consultation with the relevant employee representatives," explained a spokesperson.
The market outlook in all areas of the tire industry has deteriorated "significantly and rapidly" in recent months, the spokesperson continued. "This situation has been further exacerbated by the increase in cheap imports from Asia, which represent a considerable burden for European manufacturers." In addition, the ongoing inflationary pressure has exacerbated the challenges for competitiveness.
The decision to reduce overcapacity will enable Goodyear to improve its cost structure and secure its long-term competitiveness and profitability. The planned closure of the Fulda plant will have no impact on the Fulda tire brand, which Goodyear intends to continue. Fulda tires are manufactured in various plants and will continue to be available.
"Goodyear deeply regrets this step and it in no way reflects the good work that the employees in Fulda and Fürstenwalde have done over many years," said a spokesperson. The company is aware of its responsibility towards its employees and their families and is determined to "find fair solutions and support all those affected". According to the information provided, around 90 employees from the sales and administration departments in Fulda could be offered new jobs either at the Goodyear plant in Hanau or in the home office.
According to Goodyear, it is one of the largest tire companies in the world with around 74,000 employees in 57 plants in 23 countries. In Germany, Goodyear has around 5000 employees.
Goodyear may need to seek assistance from tire suppliers to manage the increased demand at their remaining plants due to the closure of the Fulda and Fürstenwalde facilities. Despite the closure of the Fulda plant, customers can still expect to find Fulda tires, as they are produced in various other Goodyear facilities.
Source: www.dpa.com
