Bosch has issued a statement on its recent announcement that it would be closing two facilities in Germany although it seems fairly clear why, increased competition in the lower end of the market.
“As Europe’s leading manufacturer of home appliances, the goal of BSH is to improve people’s quality of life in the home with high-quality products, strong brand promise and innovative solutions,” the company said in a statement.
“Delivering on this goal in the long term demands a clear roadmap to secure future growth and viability in a highly competitive environment. Part of this requires BSH to undertake a regular review of the competitiveness and profitability of its factories and business units.
“BSH recognises that consumer purchasing behaviours in many segments continue to change as the shift towards lower-priced appliances continues. Simultaneously, market growth pressures and demand constraints persist globally.
“Against this backdro,p BSH has taken the decision to make changes to its production network in Germany, with the planned closure of it Nauen and Bretten facilities.
“Specifically, washing machine production at the Nauen factory will be discontinued and phased out by mid-2027. The Bretten factory will likewise phase out its oven and ventilation production by the first quarter of 2028. In both cases production will be relocated, primarily to other plants across the company’s vast German and European network,” the statement said.
“Clearly both our local markets and indeed markets around the world are becoming increasingly competitive and it is important BSH ensures its competitiveness for the future,” explains Andrew Jones, CEO, BSH Australia & New Zealand.
“As production out of these factories transitions to alternative sites, I do not anticipate any local disruption to the brands and ranges represented out of these facilities. Crucially the NEFF brand and the famous Slide & Hide oven range, synonymous with Bretten, will continue,” added Jones.
“We have an enviable brand portfolio, outstanding products and ambitious plans for the next five years in both Australia & New Zealand. BSH remains committed to its German manufacturing base and will continue to operate factories, design and development centres in Germany in future, alongside sales centres, logistical hubs and of course its corporate headquarters.”
