Rosenthal, a renowned porcelain manufacturer, is championing for its continued existence
Back in the day, fine porcelain was a sign of wealth and class at many dining tables. However, times have changed and it's no longer the status symbol it once was. The legendary porcelain company Rosenthal is struggling and may be forced to shut down one of its plants. Currently, management and the union are in talks about how to move forward, a representative confirmed. "The ongoing negotiations are focused on centralizing production at a single site, which would operate on a reduced scale. The decision regarding which factory stays is still under discussion."
Rosenthal aims to keep manufacturing in Germany, it was announced. The reorganization will lead to job losses. At present, the company produces in Selb (Wunsiedel district in the Fichtel Mountains) and Speichersdorf (Bayreuth district). Rosenthal currently employs around 600 people.
Management assured: "Despite the challenging situation and the need for both structural and personnel cuts, Rosenthal is determined to chart a course for a prosperous future and remain competitive in the long term." A definitive decision about the company's fate is expected by the end of January.
High production costs, shrinking sales
Rosenthal's financial situation is difficult, the company admitted without disclosing figures. "The business environment has grown increasingly competitive, presenting numerous obstacles for companies in this industry." The buying habits surrounding porcelain items have evolved, and high labor costs in Germany, coupled with decreasing sales, are placing extra strain on producers.
Philipp Rosenthal established the company in Selb in 1879. It symbolized artistic ambitions, classic or innovative design, and high-quality porcelain. Rosenthal collaborated with renowned artists. The golden age of German porcelain manufacturers, however, is long behind us, and now, low-cost foreign rivals can be found in German retail stores and homes. Nowadays, dinnerware is readily available as mass-produced items in furniture stores.
Rosenthal became part of the British-Irish Waterford-Wedgwood group in 1997. However, in 2009, Rosenthal was forced to file for bankruptcy, and the Arcturus Group eventually took over.
The economy of the porcelain industry is facing challenges due to high production costs and shrinking sales. Rosenthal, a legendary German company, is struggling to stay competitive in this tough environment.
