Bridgestone Closes 25 Percent of Spanish Workforce Amid 27 Percent Profit Decline

Bridgestone’s factory in Biscay, Spain, has begun implementing its layoff plan, with 232 employees — 25% of the workforce — opting for voluntary redundancy since June 30, 2025. Out of the total 235 redundancies, 97% of employees accepted the company’s terms, which included an additional €30,000 compensation per individual.

Nearly 49% of those leaving are over the age of 55. The factory, which manufactures truck and bus tires for the European market, has faced declining demand due to the influx of low-cost tire imports. Consequently, Bridgestone’s annual production in Spain fell by 15%, while profits dropped by 27%. Exports to France alone plummeted 73% in 2024, prompting the company to shift production to its more cost-competitive plant in Poland.

Bridgestone stated that this production realignment is part of a global restructuring strategy, with future efforts focusing on the premium passenger car tire segment. Analysts note that the European tire market is undergoing significant restructuring, with major brands scaling back from low-margin traditional segments to focus on high-value products. The layoffs highlight intensifying industry competition, pushing companies to optimize production capacity in response to changing market dynamics.