After the effects of the crisis, which caused a series of major failures and bankruptcies, and the closure of large enterprises, the Czech glass industry is giving sure signs of recovery.
After a series of major failures and bankruptcies, mostly affected by the crisis associated with the closure of large enterprises, and the firing of thousands of employees, the Czech glass industry is giving sure signs of recovery.
The most visible example of this is a substantial expansion of production of the Preciosa glass factory in Jablonec nad Nisou. In fact, the company, which is one of the world’s largest producers of cut crystal, is looking to recruit glassmakers again. The company employs about 130 people at present and, after expansion of production, this figure will reach 530.
In 2006, when production in Jablonec nad Nisou reached record highs, the company produced almost 4.5 thousand tons of glass annually. After the expansion, scheduled for completion in 2013, production should rise to 10 thousand tons.
Preciosa is, according to China Radio International, the only Czech glass company trying to significantly enter the Chinese market. In 2010, Chinese consumers acquired Czech glass worth almost USD 5 million, and Czech jewellery and fashion jewellery for about USD 200 thousand.
The revival of the Czech glass industry is also confirmed by other manufacturers.
Sklopisek Strelec, which produces glass sand, overcame the impact of the economic crisis at the end of last year and increased revenue by 32%, with profit increasing 11%.
With regards to the bankrupt glassworks of Bohemia Crystalex Trading (BCT) and Porcela Plus, three years after the fall, around 3.1 thousand people are now working there, less than half of the 7,000 employees working in the companies during the crisis of 2008. These firms are, however, already generating revenues, although significantly lower than before.
Former glassware manufacturer Kavalier, based in Sázava near Benesov, now known as Kavalierglass, has, over the past few months called approximately 150 employees back to work.
Sklo Bohemia in Svetla nad Sazavou near Havlickuv Brod, operating under the name Crystalite Bohemia, now has four furnaces in use, and 500 employees. Moreover, at the beginning of 2012, the company also expects to start up a fifth furnace.
The glass factory in Crystal Bohemia Podebrady employs 320 people, and is constantly adding new staff. “The plant has continuous production and no shortage of orders,” said owner Pavel Louda.