French minister Bruno Le Maire optimistic over buyer for Ford Blanquefort plant

French Economy minister Bruno Le Maire stated on Friday that discussions with Belgian transmissions provider Punch Powerglide regarding the purchase of Ford’s Blanquefort gearbox plant in southwestern France should be concluded in October.

In June, the U.S. automaker had stated it would shut the plant if no purchaser could be found for the site, that has hired 900 workers.

“I hope we can reach a deal before end-October,” Le Maire stated following the meeting with staff representatives in Bordeaux.

Punch Powerglide was a “credible, solid buyer” but had yet to discuss its plans and production forecasts for Blanquefort, Le Maire stated.