ArcelorMittal Faces Potential Closure of Reims and Denain Sites Amid Strikes
ArcelorMittal, the global steel giant, is facing significant unrest as workers at its service centers in Reims (Marne) and Denain (Nord) have initiated spontaneous strikes. This action follows the company's announcement on November 19 regarding the potential closure of these sites due to a "sharp drop in activity" among its industrial and automotive customers. The strikes began on November 20, with workers expressing their discontent over the looming job losses, which could affect approximately 130 employees—around 100 in Reims and 30 in Denain.
The strikes were not organized by union calls but emerged as a direct response to the company's announcement. Benoît Jean-Leroy, a CFDT delegate at the Reims site, confirmed that the entire workforce walked out spontaneously. He indicated that the strike is likely to continue in the coming days, with further actions planned for early next week. An initial meeting to discuss a job protection plan is scheduled for Monday in Reims, a change from the originally planned location in Metz.
Economic Challenges Prompt ArcelorMittal's Consideration of Site Closures
The decision to consider shutting down the Reims and Denain sites stems from a "difficult economic context" that has seen a notable decline in activity. ArcelorMittal's management conveyed to union representatives that the reorganization aims to adapt production capacities in light of these challenges. The company has been criticized for shifting its focus away from European operations, with investments increasingly directed towards the United States, Brazil, and India. Union representatives have called for political support to preserve steel production in France and Europe, emphasizing the need to maintain the industrial infrastructure rather than merely focusing on financial compensation for affected workers.
As the situation develops, the unions are bracing for potential restructuring announcements from ArcelorMittal across its French and European operations. The ongoing strikes reflect broader concerns within the French industrial sector about job security and the future of manufacturing in the region.
