MÜLHEIM AN DER RUHR / ÜBACH-PALENBERG – NEUMAN & ESSER plans to close its site in Mülheim an der Ruhr. The site currently employs approximately 85 people.
On October 15, 2026, NEUMAN & ESSER’s executive board informed the works council and the workforce of the planned closure and its economic circumstances. Statutory participation, consultation, and negotiation procedures with the works council will now follow.
“After a thorough review of the economic, strategic, organizational, and capacity-related conditions, we see no viable perspective for the long-term continuation of the site,” explain Stefanie and Alexander Peters, Managing Partners of NEUMAN & ESSER. “We are aware of what this means for the employees and their families. The planned closure is therefore a very difficult step.”
Economic Reasons
Despite existing orders, it has not been possible to operate the facility profitably for some time. The company also expects to incur another significant economic loss in 2026. At the same time, the plant faces intense international price and competitive pressure. To win orders, it would sometimes be necessary to offer products and services at prices that do not allow for cost-covering production. Continuing operations indefinitely under these conditions is not economically viable.
NEUMAN & ESSER has examined various options for action over the past few months. These included economic, strategic, organizational, and capacity-related measures. According to current calculations, neither staff reductions alone nor a downsizing of the site would be sufficient to create a sustainable economic outlook.
Nor does the new building originally planned for Hafenstraße represent a viable alternative. The expected investment costs for this project have risen significantly compared to the original plans.
“The planned closure is not a reflection on the performance and dedication of our employees,” emphasize Stefanie and Alexander Peters. “Many of them have had close ties to the site for years and have shown great commitment to the company. Our goal is to conduct further discussions with the works council in a responsible and constructive manner.”
Background
NEUMAN & ESSER took over the facility in 2015. Since then, the company has invested in machinery, training, digital systems, and an additional parcel of land, among other things. The goal was to ensure the facility’s long-term competitiveness and economic viability.
Since this goal has not been achieved despite the measures taken, the company now plans to close the facility.
Continuation of HOFER Operations
Regardless of the planned closure of the Mülheim site, HOFER operations will continue. This applies to both the new equipment and aftermarket businesses, including customer support, order processing, spare parts supply, and services.
Existing orders and contractual obligations will continue to be fulfilled reliably. NEUMAN & ESSER will also remain a reliable partner for customers, suppliers, and business partners regarding future orders. Operational capacity and performance remain guaranteed.