Reemtsma: Factory closes

Die Tabak Zeitung // Cigarette manufacturer Imperial Brands plans to cease production at its plant in Langenhagen, which is operated by its German subsidiary Reemtsma. The management informed the employees at the site about this a few days ago at a staff meeting.

The next steps include a careful review of available options and are now the subject of negotiations with the relevant parties. The outcome will be either a sale of the site to a third party or closure. The focus is now on making the process as fair and transparent as possible for all 640 employees affected.

The decision is the result of a careful review of Imperial Brands’ global manufacturing network in line with the renewed corporate strategy for the years 2026 to 2030, the Group announced. The basis for this is the constantly declining utilization of global production capacities due to long-term declining production volumes in the classic tobacco segment worldwide. The plant in Langenhagen is particularly affected by high production costs and insufficient capacity utilization.

Rémi Guillon, Director Supply Chain Europe at Imperial Brands and member of the Reemtsma Board: “Our intention to cease production in Langenhagen is a very regrettable but necessary decision to ensure that we can continue to invest in the long-term efficiency and effectiveness of our entire manufacturing network. Declining volumes, high production costs and challenging regulatory hurdles unfortunately mean that there is no alternative to ending production in Langenhagen. Despite these challenges, our colleagues here have always been very committed and have done an excellent job. We are aware that this decision is causing concern and our priority is to provide the best possible support to all colleagues affected during this difficult time. The consultation phase with the works council will begin immediately.”

The plant in Langenhagen was put into operation in 1971. In addition to classic factory cigarettes and fine-cut tobacco, it currently also produces so-called tobacco sticks for tobacco heaters. At the same time, rumors are circulating in the industry that Imperial Brands could relocate its headquarters from the UK, allegedly to Rome.