Bekaert Restructuring Plan Targets Cost Reduction and Global Efficiency
Bekaert has launched a major restructuring plan to strengthen its global competitiveness by reducing costs, relocating operations, and streamlining internal processes. The company aims to improve efficiency and respond to ongoing market pressures.
Bekaert restructuring plan focuses on cost efficiency
The Bekaert restructuring plan focuses on creating a more agile and cost-efficient organization. The company will relocate several Belgium-based activities to lower-cost regions.
Key changes include:
- Moving standard test lab activities to global production plants
- Shifting spare parts operations to Slovakia, near key Central European facilities
- Transferring pilot development and industrialization processes to specialized “key learning plants”
These moves will accelerate innovation and reduce time-to-market for new products.
Learn more about Bekaert: https://www.bekaert.com
Plant Closure and Production Shift in Europe
Bekaert will close its Dramix® steel fiber plant in Moen, Belgium, due to strong price competition in the EMEA concrete reinforcement market. Competitors have already shifted production to lower-cost regions, making the Moen facility less competitive.
The company will instead expand Dramix production at its plant in Petrovice, Czech Republic, to improve cost efficiency and maintain market position.
Organizational Changes and Workforce Impact
The Bekaert restructuring plan also includes reducing administrative and support roles. The company will streamline operations through standardization, centralization, outsourcing, and relocation.
Engineering, technology, and functional teams in Belgium will shift their focus toward global expertise and strategic support roles, helping the business meet both short- and long-term goals.
The restructuring will impact 281 jobs in Belgium, including positions in Moen, Zwevegem, Deerlijk, and Ingelmunster.
Strengthening Long-Term Competitiveness
Bekaert expects these measures to significantly lower its cost structure and improve overall financial performance. By optimizing operations and focusing on strategic capabilities, the company aims to strengthen its position in the global market.
