Overview
- Thomson Computing chief Stephan Français unveiled a plan to take over Brandt’s Orléans site, retaining 150 positions at launch from roughly 350 previously on the plant.
- The project would keep part of appliance production and add electronics and IT manufacturing, with hiring potentially rising to 250 over five years if performance allows.
- Français cited a €25 million budget for the relaunch, with about €9 million potentially from public entities and additional financing under discussion with banks.
- Any deal requires validation by the Nanterre economic activities tribunal, and the Economy Ministry plans a formal call for offers in January.
- Orléans mayor Serge Grouard called the bid serious but risky and urged speed, while the CGT condemned the limited job scope and the industry minister demanded rigorous evaluation.