Restructuring events
European Restructuring Monitor (ERM)
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.
The automotive manufacturer BMW is opening a new plant in Irlbach-Straßkirchen, which is expected to create up to 1,600 jobs. The site is planned to start production in August 2026 and will play an important role in BMW’s future production network.
BMW aims to strengthen its position in electromobility and is therefore investing around EUR 650 million in the site. In the future, high-voltage batteries for BMW’s electric vehicles will be produced there. The plant will exclusively produce electric vehicles, specifically the new i3 model. This is intended to increase efficiency by reducing long‑term production costs with the i3 by about 10%.
Many BMW employees are applying internally for positions at the new plant and are undergoing training in battery production. The company is also offering apprenticeships with potential for employment at the new site.
BMW employs around 154,000 people worldwide and around 87,000 staff in Germany. The investment is symbolic for the struggling automotive sector in Germany, as it shows that cooperation of R&D, companies, local authorities and policy-makers can result in successful investments.
Eurofound (2025), BMW, Business expansion in Germany, factsheet number 300230, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://apps.eurofound.europa.eu/restructuring-events/detail/300230.
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