Staedtler to Close Two German Factories Amid Industry Downturn

Protest against plant closures at Staedtler - Staedtler to Close Two German Factories Amid Industry Downturn

Staedtler is facing financial strain as consumer spending weakens and costs rise. The company now plans to close two factories in Bavaria, sparking protests from workers and unions. Rival manufacturers in Franconia are also struggling, with job cuts and restructuring underway across the industry.

The writing instrument maker will shut its plants in Neumarkt and Sugenheim by 2028. Production from both sites will move to the main facility in Nuremberg, where Staedtler is investing over €50 million in upgrades. The expansion aims to improve efficiency and increase revenue.

Employees and union group IG Metall have criticised the decision. Around 180 workers joined a demonstration, arguing that Staedtler has not provided clear plans for relocating jobs. IG Metall also questioned whether all affected staff could be absorbed by the Nuremberg site.

Staedtler left the industry's collective bargaining association in 2019, switching to its own wage agreements. The company is also expanding a facility in Poland as part of its restructuring. Meanwhile, rival Stabilo has reported falling sales and is reducing its global workforce. Faber-Castell, another competitor, is cutting 130 jobs in Germany and shifting some production to Brazil and Peru.

The closures in Neumarkt and Sugenheim will take place over the next four years. Staedtler's investment in Nuremberg and Poland signals a shift toward centralised production. The moves reflect broader challenges in the industry, where firms are adjusting to higher costs and weaker demand.

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