When asked about future social plans, Marc Ferracci assures that the social budget “will be counted in thousands of jobs” in the coming months.
Industry Minister Marc Ferracci expects new announcements of closures of industrial sites in France “in the coming weeks and months”which will influence “thousands of jobs”following the announcement of the closure of two Michelin sites this week.
“There will likely be announcements of site closures in the coming weeks and months.”declared Marc Ferracci into the microphone of FranceInter Saturday 9 November, estimate of the social budget “they will be counted in thousands of jobs”.
“It is true that a number of sectors are in worrying situations”added the minister mentioning chemistry, metallurgy and the automotive industry. Earlier this week, Michelin announced the imminent closure of its factories in Cholet and Vannes (Morbihan), which together employ 1,254 people. On Friday 8 November, Marc Ferracci, coming to meet the employees of the Cholet factory, was verbally attacked by angry employees. “I expected this kind of reaction because the employees are angry and we can understand it because the way the announcement was made was not dignified,” added the minister, regretting that Michelin management did not come to meet the employees at the affected sites.
A “European common loan” to help the automotive sector
Beyond that, he described “very constructive” contacts with local elected officials and the group’s trade unions. “Michelin’s commitment is that no one is left without a solution”he recalled. For the struggling automotive sector, for which he announced an emergency plan, Marc Ferracci praised a “approach to support the European automotive industry”. “The value chains are fully integrated. You have suppliers in Germany for manufacturers who are in France, and you have suppliers in France for manufacturers who are in Germany. Trade protection against Chinese vehicles must be designed at European level”he said.
Among the measures cited, he underlines “an ecological bonus on a European scale”AND “European common loan” finance “support mechanisms” to the sector. «Starting from the first half of 2025, the European Commission has stated that it will give priority to a “clean industrial act”, i.e. European legislation on clean industry in which we will be able to implement a certain number of measurements».
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Marc Ferracci, Industry Minister
Editor: Welcome, Minister Ferracci. Thank you for joining us today. The recent announcements regarding the closure of the Michelin factories have understandably caused unrest among workers. Can you share your insights on what this means for the industrial sector in France?
Marc Ferracci: Thank you for having me. Indeed, the recent closures in Cholet and Vannes affecting over 1,200 workers are deeply concerning. We anticipate new announcements regarding industrial site closures in the coming weeks and months, which could substantially impact thousands of jobs across various sectors, including chemistry, metallurgy, and automotive.
Editor: That sounds quite alarming. The proactive approach in communicating this information is crucial, yet it can understandably lead to anxiety among workers. What measures are being taken to support those affected by these closures?
Marc Ferracci: It is essential to acknowledge the pain and frustration that employees feel. We are committed to a social budget that will not only address immediate job losses but also create thousands of new jobs in the coming months. This includes retraining programs and support for transitioning workers to new opportunities within the evolving industrial landscape.
Editor: Their anger is palpable. During your recent visit to the Cholet factory, you were met with hostility from the employees. How do you view that reaction, and how will you address their concerns moving forward?
Marc Ferracci: I fully understand the emotions involved. Displacing workers from their jobs is not an easy situation for anyone. I expected a strong reaction because these employees face uncertain futures. Moving forward, our priority is to engage in open dialogue with the workers and their representatives to ensure they know we are working hard on solutions that benefit them.
Editor: You’ve highlighted several sectors facing challenges. With the impending closures and transformations, how do you foresee the future of industry in France?
Marc Ferracci: The future is indeed challenging, but it’s also an opportunity for transformation. We must adapt to changing global markets and technological advancements. Our focus will be on sustainable growth, investment in innovation, and workforce development to position France competitively for the future.
Editor: As we anticipate these changes, what role do you see the government playing in fostering a more resilient industrial sector?
Marc Ferracci: The government has a critical role in creating a favorable environment for industry. This involves facilitating partnerships between businesses, educational institutions, and local governments to ensure that training aligns with industry demands. Additionally, we’re looking to bolster R&D funding to stimulate innovation and job creation.
Editor: Thank you, Minister Ferracci, for sharing your perspective during this difficult time. It seems essential that your department balances immediate job preservation with long-term growth strategies.
Marc Ferracci: Absolutely. The road ahead will not be easy, but with cooperation between all stakeholders, I am optimistic about our capacity to navigate these challenges together.
Editor: Thank you for your insights, and we hope for a positive outcome for all affected by these significant changes in the industry.
Marc Ferracci: Thank you for having me. It’s vital to continue these conversations.