The European Commission said on Tuesday it will release more than €3 million ($3.42 million) in aid for 915 workers in Germany who lost their jobs following the restructuring of U.S. tyre manufacturer Goodyear.

The assistance, drawn from the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund for Displaced Workers, also known as EGF, will support workers made redundant after the closure of Goodyear’s production site in Fulda and the partial shutdown of its plant in Hanau in 2024.

Support for Job Transition

Germany applied for EGF support in March 2025 following Goodyear’s decision to cut 1,171 jobs amid declining demand, increased production costs, and mounting competition from low-cost Asian imports.

The EU funds will finance job market reintegration measures such as career counselling, skills training, entrepreneurship support, job search assistance and participation in employment fairs and company visits.

“These tailored measures will help the affected workers adapt to changes in the labour market, particularly in regions hit hard by the layoffs,” the Commission said in a statement.

Co-Financing and Local Impact

The total cost of the support package is estimated at €5.1 million, with 60 percent covered by the EGF and the remaining €2.1 million financed by Germany’s federal government and public employment services.

National authorities began assisting workers in November 2024, shortly after the layoffs occurred, and the EGF will retroactively co-finance eligible expenses.

The layoffs caused local unemployment rates to rise by over 10% in Fulda and by 6% in the Hanau area.

Next Steps and Broader Context

The aid proposal must now be approved by the European Parliament and the Council.

Since 2007, the EGF has supported more than 172,000 workers across 20 EU member states, with over €709 million allocated in 183 cases.

Roxana Mînzatu, the Commission’s executive vice-president for social rights and skills, said the fund is critical for workers in industries undergoing major transitions.

“EU support and solidarity is essential when many workers lose their jobs at once, especially in the same region and with similar skill profiles,” she said. “Through the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, we will help affected workers adapt to this change by developing skills needed in today’s job market.”