Restructuring events
European Restructuring Monitor (ERM)
The restructuring events database contains factsheets with data on large-scale restructuring events reported in the principal national media and company websites in each EU Member State. This database was created in 2002.
CERATIZIT, a Luxembourg-based manufacturer of carbide tools, has announced that it will close its plants in Besigheim and Empfingen (Germany) by 2026, affecting 350 jobs in Besigheim and 300 in Empfingen. Production is to be relocated to other European sites.
The closures are prompted by high costs, a weak order situation in the automotive industry, and a difficult international competitive situation. The measure is part of a reorganisation of the global production network to exploit synergies and reduce redundancies. The company plans to negotiate social plans and reconcile interests with the employees. The trade union criticises the decision and calls for alternatives to the closure.
The CERATIZIT Group is active worldwide, operates 30 production sites with 7,000 employees and is the market leader in several carbide application areas.
Updated, 16/09/25
After failed negotiations with IG Metall, the plant in Empfingen is closing permanently, affecting 230 employees, not 300 as previously announced. No agreement on a social compensation plan could be reached. The job reductions are set to be implemented by December 31, 2026.
The plant in Besigheim is set to remain closed. Trade union negotiations on this matter are still ongoing, but no agreement is yet in sight.
Eurofound (2025), Ceratizit, Offshoring/Delocalisation in Germany, factsheet number 202468, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://apps.eurofound.europa.eu/restructuring-events/detail/202468.