US group GGB closes location in Heilbronn – 65 jobs at risk!

US group GGB closes location in Heilbronn – 65 jobs at risk!

The sad news from Heilbronn is causing excitement and sadness among the approximately 115 employees of the US group GGB. The company plans to close its production and logistics at its only location in Germany. According to the information from Mercury This decision will have far-reaching consequences for the workforce, as 65 employees will lose their jobs. The closure, which was announced to the workforce on May 14, 2025, does not come as a complete surprise, as there is talk of relocating production to Slovakia and logistics to France.

GGB, part of the American Timken Group based in Thorofare, New Jersey, has set up its tents in Heilbronn since 1991. The closure marks the end of a 50-year company anniversary that was celebrated just last year. The exact reasons for this drastic decision are still unclear. However, there is talk of cost factors - high energy costs, bureaucracy and tax burdens play a decisive role, according to the company spokesman, who describes the measure as necessary to rationalize processes.

Anger and determination among employees

Understandably, the reactions among employees are anything but positive. IG Metall has already announced that it will fight to preserve jobs. The union secretary reported striking anger among workers who have decided to fight and not just give up. This determination could be crucial for the future of the site, as there have been cases in the past where such measures were reversed when the pressure on companies became too high.

The situation is not only negative for the employees directly affected. The economic and social consequences of unemployment can be devastating. According to studies by the Federal Agency for Civic Education Unemployed people not only suffer from financial losses, but also from health and psychosocial problems. Signs of depression, addiction and social isolation are common companions of long-term unemployment. Possible consequences include not only a loss of self-esteem and social standing, but also a deterioration in health, especially for men.

Outlook and measures

IG Metall is planning concrete steps to help the employees in Heilbronn. Support and negotiations are on the agenda as there are numerous reports of successful interventions in similar cases. Whether and to what extent the closure of the GGB location can still be averted remains to be seen. The next few weeks will show whether the pressure on the US company is having an effect or whether employees have to face a harsh reality.

Heilbronn has shown in the past that it has a strong workforce who fight for their rights. If the workforce and the unions stick together, this could end well. As we all know, hope dies last, and solidarity is particularly important in times like this.