The Mann+Hummel Group, an expert in the field of filtration which develops innovative solutions for the health and mobility of the people, will no longer accept any new production orders at its Ludwigsburg plant in southwestern Germany. The specific timetable for the closure will be agreed in cooperation with customers and employee representatives.

 

"Existing production activities will be phased out or relocated," the company said in a media release. The company will work in close and trusting cooperation with the negotiation partners to arrange socially responsible solutions for the staff at the Ludwigsburg plant. Around 400 jobs at the factory are currently set to be affected by the decision.

 

“This has been an our most difficult decision – we have been producing in Ludwigsburg since 1954. However, this was a necessary measure to ensure the company’s future. Of course, the company headquarters with the research and development centre will remain here and we will continue to invest in the technology centre. We stand by the Ludwigsburg location,” said the chairman of the Supervisory Board, Thomas Fischer.

 

Mann+Hummel continuously reviews its production sites to ensure its ability to meet evolving customer needs. Over the course of these strategic considerations, it was determined that the competitiveness of the Ludwigsburg production facility cannot be maintained.

 

“As an international company, Mann+Hummel is not only responsible for the Ludwigsburg site. In order to remain competitive in the medium to long term and to safeguard the future of the company with 22,000 employees worldwide, we need to make this adjustment to our production network,” explained Hanno Höhn, chief supply chain officer and labour director of the Mann+Hummel GmbH.

 

Among other components, fuel, oil and air filter systems for automotive original equipment are produced in Ludwigsburg. The company said it will ensure a smooth transition for its customers and suppliers at the affected site and the receiving factories.