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.
Rheinmetall, a German defence manufacturer, announced an expansion at its Neuss plant that could create up to 1200 new jobs, increasing the workforce from around 300 to 15000 employees.
Rheinmetall will host approximately 500 scientists in an AI centre to be established on site, focusing on future technologies for security and satellite technology. Another 700 jobs will be created in the plant's production division.
The expansion is driven by strong and expected demand for military equipment amid rising defence spending in Europe. Rheinmetall is repurposing former automotive manufacturing capacity for defence production, reflecting both difficulties in the German automotive sector and strong order levels in its defence business. Production in Neuss is being shifted from automotive components towards radar satellites, drones, air-defence systems, military vehicle cabins, protection modules and other military equipment. The expansion also has a significant digitalisation and R&D component: Rheinmetall plans to invest around €250 million in the new technology centre, where research will focus on artificial intelligence, digitalisation and satellite technology.
On 27 August 2026, Rheinmetall announced the creation of 1,000 new jobs in Germany: Rheinmetall 2026 - DE.
Eurofound (2026), Rheinmetall, Business expansion in Germany, factsheet number 301054, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://apps.eurofound.europa.eu/restructuring-events/detail/301054.
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