Type
Internal restructuring
Country
Germany
Region
Nordrhein-Westfalen; Arnsberg; Soest
Location of affected unit(s)
Warstein
Sector
Manufacturing
(10 - 11) Manufacture of food and beverage
11.0 - Manufacture of beverages
11.05 - Manufacture of beer

125 jobs
Number of planned job losses
Job loss
Announcement Date
23 September 2026
Employment effect (start)
23 September 2026
Foreseen end date
31 December 2026

Description

Warsteiner Brauerei, a German brewery based in Warstein, announced it will cut 125 full-time positions by the end of the year. The job losses are concentrated at the Warstein site.

The restructuring is driven by a challenging market environment and declining beer sales in Germany, combined with cost-saving objectives. Warsteiner is simultaneously investing in new technology such as a de-alcoholisation plant and building a wind turbine expected to supply half of its electricity needs, signalling a green transition that supports the overall strategy.

The cuts involve about 50 jobs that will not be replaced after retirements or short-term contract expirations, and roughly 80 further roles for which socially responsible solutions are being sought with the works council. These solutions may include transfers or training opportunities.

The Union NGG criticizes the layoffs and claims that they contradict recent assurances from management according to which jobs at the Warstein site would be secured.

There are around 725 employees at the Warstein site of which around 125 are affected by reductions. The site will continue to operate.


Citation

Eurofound (2026), Warsteiner Brauerei, Internal restructuring in Germany, factsheet number 301154, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://apps.eurofound.europa.eu/restructuring-events/detail/301154.