Type
Offshoring/Delocalisation
Country
France
Region
Hauts-de-France; Nord-Pas de Calais; Nord
Location of affected unit(s)
Valenciennes, Flaumont Waudrechies
Sector
Manufacturing
(22 - 23) Manufacture of rubber, plastic and non-metallic minerals
23.2 - Manufacture of refractory products
23.20 - Manufacture of refractory products
New offshoring locations

143 jobs
Number of planned job losses
Job loss
Announcement Date
31 March 2026
Employment effect (start)
31 July 2026
Foreseen end date
31 October 2026

Description

RHI Magnesita, an Austrian refractory manufacturer, announced the closing of two French plants in Valenciennes and Flaumont Waudrechies, resulting in the loss of 143 jobs.

The decision follows a sustained decline in profitability at the French sites and an ambition to shift production to lower-cost locations, particularly Asia where RHI Magnesita has recently acquired plants. Both Valenciennes and Flaumont Waudrechies will see the full cessation of operations.

Trade union representatives from CGT and the works council have organized a strike and public demonstration. The local workforce’s exit is expected to be governed by the PSE process.


Citation

Eurofound (2026), RHI Magnesita, Offshoring/Delocalisation in France, factsheet number 300705, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://apps.eurofound.europa.eu/restructuring-events/detail/300705.