Lemvig Municipality explores ammunition production after FMC Rønland closure

The closure of the FMC Rønland chemical plant, formerly known as Cheminova, is expected to result in the loss of approximately 400 jobs by the end of 2026. The company cited global production optimization and several years of financial losses as reasons for the shutdown. The closure is being described by Lemvig Municipality as a local catastrophe, as it impacts families, subcontractors, and the broader local economy.

In response to the vacancy, Lemvig Municipality has renamed the site ‘Industripark Rønland’. Mayor Jens Lønberg has proposed exploring new industrial possibilities, specifically suggesting the establishment of an ammunition factory or other defense industry operations. He noted that the site is located three kilometers from the nearest residential area and possesses a workforce of 400 competent employees trained in handling hazardous substances.

Senior researcher Kim Haugbølle from Aalborg University has expressed support for the idea of ammunition production, noting that such manufacturing provides more local employment opportunities compared to alternatives like wind farms or data centers.