British Steel takeover threatens 100 jobs at Dutch FNsteel rolling mill

The British government’s recent takeover of British Steel is reportedly triggering serious consequences in the Dutch steel industry, putting approximately 100 jobs at risk at FNsteel’s rolling mill in Alblasserdam. The rolling mill, which employs about 100 workers, faces imminent closure unless a buyer is found, company director Matthijs van der Schoot confirmed to NRC. FNsteel as a whole employs more than 350 people.

In April, the UK Labour government took control of British Steel’s operations in a move reportedly resembling nationalization. This followed a threat by Chinese owner Jingye to shut down the UK’s blast furnaces. FNsteel, which primarily processed steel products from British Steel, was left outside the scope of this government intervention and now allegedly finds itself in a vulnerable position.

FNsteel generates an estimated annual revenue between 100 million and 150 million euros. The company specializes in producing wire used in manufacturing screws, nuts, tools, and ball bearings. With British Steel now under government control, the key supply relationship that supported FNsteel’s operations has reportedly collapsed.

“The British government’s intervention led our shareholder to a strategic reorientation,” Van der Schoot told NRC. “We are now seeking a new shareholder because the logical partnership between FNsteel and British Steel no longer exists.”

FNsteel has reportedly begun the process of shutting down its rolling mill division, the least profitable part of the company and the most dependent on British Steel’s steel supply. Van der Schoot confirmed that closing the rolling mill would directly cost about 100 jobs.

The wire processing division remains more viable due to its distinct market position and lower reliance on British Steel’s supply. However, without access to British Steel steel, interest in the rolling mill is expected to be low.

Labor union CNV’s Bowen Orth, representing FNsteel employees, confirmed ongoing discussions to develop a social plan for workers affected by the rolling mill closure. “So far, the atmosphere has been constructive, but key issues still need to be addressed,” Orth told NRC.

If no buyer emerges, Jingye could either close FNsteel entirely or restructure it in a reduced form. The uncertainty reportedly weighs heavily on employees, many of whom are second- or third-generation workers at the company.

FNsteel is the last remaining part of the former Nedstaal steelworks, which once employed thousands in the region. Jingye acquired British Steel and FNsteel in 2020 following British Steel’s bankruptcy and pledged more than 1 billion U.K. pounds in investments—a promise that raised hopes among politicians in the UK and the Netherlands.

The company’s prospects deteriorated rapidly, and by early 2025, Jingye considered closing the UK plants. The British government intervened, but FNsteel reportedly remains caught between decisions made in London and Jingye’s headquarters in Shijiazhuang, China.

Communication between FNsteel and Jingye has at times been difficult. While Jingye invested millions in maintaining the factory, company insiders reported challenges stemming from cultural differences and language barriers, with much communication requiring interpreters.

“There’s a different culture at play,” Van der Schoot told NRC. “It’s been difficult, but we always found ways to keep the operation running.”

Van der Schoot expressed hope that a positive outcome can be found to preserve FNsteel’s legacy. “This company has been here since before World War II. Many employees come from families with a long history here. It’s painful to consider the potential loss.”