MANN+HUMMEL plans to close its plant in Speyer by 2028. This will affect 600 employees, including 400 production workers. The site produces filter elements such as air, oil, and air-oil separators for agriculture and mechanical engineering. Production will be gradually transferred to other plants. The company cites weak economic growth in Europe, higher energy and labor costs, and additional burdens from tariffs and geopolitical uncertainties in supply chains as the reasons for the closure. For Speyer, the decision is therefore a severe blow, as an industrial site with roots dating back to 1945 is facing closure. (t-online: 21.04.26)
A Plant with a Long History Loses Its Future
The Speyer site has been part of the city’s industrial landscape for decades. Dating back to 1945, the plant represents a long manufacturing tradition. Now, this history is coming to an end because the corporation no longer intends to maintain production at the site.
Bild:© MANN+HUMMEL
In Speyer, MANN+HUMMEL manufactures filter elements for agriculture and mechanical engineering, according to available information. The plant thus serves sectors that are technically specialized and yet remain firmly integrated into industrial supply chains. Nevertheless, the company is relocating production, with the relocation to be carried out gradually by 2028.
High costs and a weak economy are the deciding factors
The company cites several factors as the reason for the move. These include weak economic growth in Europe and increased energy and labor costs. Furthermore, tariffs and geopolitical uncertainties are making supply chains more expensive, which is why cost pressures are increasing.
This combination of factors is affecting not only smaller businesses but also large industrial companies. MANN+HUMMEL operates 80 locations worldwide and generates annual sales of €4.5 billion, according to its own figures. This case clearly demonstrates just how challenging the operating environment has become, even for large suppliers.
City Demands Solutions for Employees
A period of great uncertainty is beginning for the employees. 600 jobs are affected, 400 of which are directly in production. This means the site will lose not only machinery and orders, but also a significant number of jobs.
Speyer’s Mayor Stefanie Seiler called the announcement a “hard blow” for the city. She stated: “This news is a hard blow for Speyer. Behind these 600 jobs are people and families, some of whom have been connected to this plant for decades – this deeply affects me.” The city intends to work towards viable solutions while the company develops a social plan.