Overview

• ArcelorMittal announced the closure of its Reims and Denain service centers, impacting 135 jobs, with production set to cease by June 2025.
• The company attributes the decision to a 30% market decline since 2019 and increased competition from cheaper non-European steel imports.
• Unions have organized strikes and protests, including site blockades, to oppose the closures and demand the preservation of jobs and facilities.
• ArcelorMittal has proposed 19 new positions at other locations and reclassification opportunities, but unions argue these measures are insufficient.
• The steelmaker has also delayed its European decarbonization projects, citing a need for stronger EU measures to safeguard the competitiveness of European steel.