Imperial Brands plans to withdraw from Langenhagen site

Imperial Brands has today announced its intention to cease production at its Langenhagen factory, operated by its German subsidiary Reemtsma. The management informed colleagues at the site of this decision during a meeting held earlier today.  

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

The decision announced today is the result of a careful review of Imperial Brands' global manufacturing network in line with the company's recently refreshed strategy for 2026 to 2030. It is based on the steadily declining utilisation of global production capacity due to a long-term decline in production volumes in the traditional tobacco segment worldwide. The Langenhagen plant is particularly affected by underutilisation and high production costs. 

Rémi Guillon, Director of Supply Chain Europe at Imperial Brands and member of the Reemtsma Executive Board, commented: "The announcement of our intention to cease production in Langenhagen is an unfortunate, but necessary, decision to ensure we can continue to invest in the long-term efficiency and effectiveness of our wider manufacturing network. 

“Declining volumes, high production costs, and challenging regulatory hurdles leave us with no alternative but to end production in Langenhagen. Despite the challenges, our colleagues here have always been highly committed and delivered excellent work. 

“We recognise this decision creates anxiety for our colleagues and our priority is to provide the best possible support to all affected colleagues during this difficult time. The consultation phase with the works councils will begin immediately." 

About Langenhagen factory 

The Langenhagen factory began operations in 1971. In addition to classic factory-made cigarettes and fine-cut tobacco, the factory also produces tobacco sticks for tobacco heaters.