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.
Manufacturing (19) Manufacture of coke and refined petroleum 19.2 - Manufacture of refined petroleum products and fossil fuel products 19.2 - Manufacture of refined petroleum products and fossil fuel products
337 jobs Number of planned job losses
Announcement Date
30 September 2025
Employment effect (start)
1 October 2025
Foreseen end date
30 December 2027
Description
ExxonMobil an international petrochemical company has announced a major restructuring plan affecting its European operations, including Belgium. The company plans to cut approximately 1,200 jobs across the EU and Norway by the end of 2027, with 337 of those in Belgium.
The restructuring will impact nearly one-fifth of the Belgian workforce, particularly at the Brussels head office and technology centre, where 268 jobs are at risk. Additionally, 69 jobs will be lost across three production sites in Antwerp, Zwijndrecht, and Meerhout. ExxonMobil intends to relocate parts of its operations to its Antwerp refinery site, where a new office building will be constructed.
The company cites the need to remain competitive and criticises EU regulatory complexity as a barrier to investment. The move follows previous closures and divestments in Italy, Norway, France, and Germany, raising concerns among unions about a potential full exit from Europe
Eurofound (2025), ExxonMobil, Internal restructuring in Belgium, factsheet number 203406, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://apps.eurofound.europa.eu/restructuring-events/detail/203406.
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