GGB closes plant in Heilbronn: 65 jobs at risk!

GGB closes plant in Heilbronn: 65 jobs at risk!

A dark shadow is falling over Heilbronn: The US group GGB is planning to close its production and logistics at its only German location. The company, which specializes in the production of plain bearings for the automotive industry and medical technology, announced that 65 of the 115 jobs will be eliminated. This news was communicated to the workforce on May 14th and has already caused considerable unrest.

GGB, headquartered in Thorofare, New Jersey, is putting the brakes on costs. Although sales for the German market will remain in Heilbronn, production will be relocated to Slovakia in the future, while logistics will move to France. Despite the announced closures, IG Metall reports a “solid economic situation” at the Heilbronn plant. Interestingly, the company only recently ended a phase of short-time work.

The reason is unclear, but the anger is palpable

Although the official reason for the closure leaves something to be desired, it is generally assumed that it is due to cost reasons. The high location costs, rising energy prices and a bureaucracy that has no friends are making it increasingly difficult for many companies to survive in Germany. Union secretary Niklas Anner expressed concerns about parent company Timken's intentions and is confident that workers will not give up without a fight. They are angry and determined to fight for their jobs.

There is also a worrying trend in the Heilbronn region: Recently, a manufacturer of electric vehicles filed for bankruptcy, which increases concerns about the future of industry in the area. IG Metall has already announced resistance to the planned job cuts, but sees little chance of success against the much-discussed globalization.

A wake-up call for politicians?

The GGB case is not only an economic issue, but also a social issue. The problem here is that many companies find unattractive conditions due to the political framework in Germany. Political decision-makers are now called upon to counteract the stagnating industry. The GGB case is seen as a wake-up call to finally take measures to support and promote the industry in Germany.

The latest developments in Heilbronn also shed light on the decline of German industry as a whole. More and more companies are being forced to cut jobs or even file for bankruptcy. A critical situation for the region that needs political attention quickly. The fate of the GGB employees could be the reason to take politicians to task.

The concerned population and the affected employees now know that having a good hand is more important than ever in the current situation.

You can find out more about the background and developments in the articles from Mercury and Kettner precious metals.