ECR MEPs Donazzan and colleagues press Commission for EU industrial strategy after Electrolux layoffs

Six Italian MEPs from the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group have asked the European Commission to develop a dedicated industrial strategy for the household appliances sector, following Electrolux's announcement on 11 May 2026 that it plans to lay off 1,700 workers in Italy and close a plant. In a written parliamentary question submitted on 26 May 2026, the MEPs warn that the sector faces a jobs crisis, citing similar decisions by Bosch and Beko, and argue that EU production capacity and know-how are being eroded by competition from low-cost supply chains outside the bloc.

The question, addressed to the Commission under Rule 144, contains three concrete asks. First, the MEPs call for a European industrial policy specifically targeting the household appliances sector and the cold chain, which they describe as strategically important for food security, energy efficiency, and quality of life. Second, they ask whether the Commission will strengthen EU instruments such as state aid rules and investment screening to protect strategic production capacities. Third, they request support for Member States, including Italy, to ensure goods are actually produced in Europe.

Policy orientation and ambition The question reflects a protectionist and interventionist orientation, urging the Commission to move beyond general industrial policy and adopt sector-specific measures to combat de-industrialisation and bolster the EU's strategic autonomy. The MEPs express concern about Electrolux's partnership with China's Midea Group, warning that the joint venture could lead to divestment of strategic assets, as seen in other green transition areas. This suggests a desire to tighten foreign investment scrutiny and prevent technology or production capacity from shifting outside the EU.

Expected follow-up The Commission is required to respond to the written question within approximately six weeks. Its answer will signal whether it is prepared to develop a targeted strategy for the household appliances sector or prefers to rely on existing horizontal industrial policy tools. The question also puts pressure on the Commission to address the tension between open markets and protecting European manufacturing jobs, a recurring cleavage in EU trade and industrial policy.