Workers at a Michelin factory in western France set tires on fire in protest against the company’s decision to close two plants by 2026 due to declining sales.

The company explained that the decision to close the two plants, which provide more than 1,250 jobs, was a last resort due to Asian competition and the decline in European competitiveness caused by inflation and rising energy prices.

On the other hand, the Schaeffler Group announced plans to cut 4,700 jobs in Europe due to challenges facing the automotive sector.