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Goodyear closes factory in Fulda: 1,050 jobs at risk!
Goodyear will close its Fulda factory in 2025, affecting over 1,000 jobs. The city is planning possible subsequent uses for the site.
Goodyear closes factory in Fulda: 1,050 jobs at risk!
Shock for the Fulda region: The tire manufacturer Goodyear has announced the closure of its over 100-year-old factory in Fulda by the end of September 2025 at the latest. A total of 1,050 employees are affected by this decision, with the plant in Fürstenwalde, Brandenburg, also being gradually closed by the end of 2027. Goodyear justifies the closures with a necessary adjustment to the reduced demand and the goal of optimizing the cost structure and securing long-term competitiveness. The IGBCE union has already expressed dissatisfaction with this decision and is considering possible strike action, report colleagues from Hessen Schau.
Around 400 employees have already left the company in spring 2025, and the remaining 600 employees are now about to finish their last shift in autumn 2025. In addition, around 30 employees will be involved in dismantling the site by March 2026. The city of Fulda has reacted to the closure: It has passed a pre-emption statute in order to buy the site of the factory, which extends over 17 hectares and is considered a key piece of land, before third parties. Mayor Dr. Heiko Wingenfeld would like the area to be used commercially or industrially.
Future of the Goodyear site
The city council has already initiated discussions between Goodyear, potential investors and the city of Fulda. City planning officer Daniel Schreiner emphasizes how important jobs and tax revenue are for the region. In addition, the SPD/Volt parliamentary group has suggested that residential uses also be considered in order to promote varied development that enables a mix of living and working. At least five buildings, including the administration building, the engine house and the chimney, are to be preserved, which could preserve the connection to the city's industrial past.
As the FFH news agency reports, a transfer company will be set up for the employees significantly affected, which will be supported by the European Social Fund. A total of 1,171 jobs are at risk due to the closures in Fulda and Hanau, which is why EU funding of over three million euros is being made available to support job searches. This not only applies to career advice, but also further training opportunities and support for starting a business.
The economic situation and the political reaction
The reasons for the drastic cuts are complex. Cheap imports from Asia, overcapacity and inflationary pressure are making things difficult for Goodyear. According to the company, the market outlook has also deteriorated significantly. Economy Minister Tarek Al-Wazir and local politicians are dismayed by the developments and offer their support for the employees.
According to the company, the Fulda tire brand will continue to exist, but production will take place at other locations. There is great uncertainty for the employees in Fulda, and the city has taken on the responsibility of advocating for a future-proof use of the site in order to keep the economic losses for the region as low as possible.