Clothing Industry Petitions Policy Makers for Action on Environmental Issues
Spinning the narrative:
The Cutlery and Household Goods Industry rocks on a shaky boat in 2025. While certain spheres experienced growth, the sector still wrestles with escalating expenses and uncertainties. The Association of Cutlery and Household Goods (IVSH) fingers a mixed balance sheet for their big event at Ambiente, saying the industry needs political moves to boost its competitive edge.
A Mixed Bag: The Industry’s Picture in 2024
The scene looked vague last year: Household goods forged ahead with a production increase of 6.9% and turnover gain of 5.4%, but cutlery saw a 3.4% drop in output and almost no change in revenue (-0.1%). Cutlery showed a slight rebound of 3.5%, yet its revenue floundered below pre-pandemic levels, growing just 0.6%. Altogether, the sector clocked in around 2.15 billion euros in revenue, marking a 2.4% increase versus the previous year. However, it all fell apart thanks to inflated energy, workforce, and raw material costs.
A challenging future still looms, with merely 16% of companies rating the domestic situation favorably, and 37% describing it as poor. Export prospects appear as bleak, but there's a glimmer of hope - 32% of companies anticipate greater production, and 51% foresee no梦 schematic designchange.
"Our members are battling the crisis with determination, commitment, and courage. But our industry can't shoulder these challenges alone. We call for decisive political actions to preserve the long-term viability of our companies," asserts IVSH Chair, Ralf Zimmermann.
The European Green Deal under the Microscope
IVSH demands a clear political strategy to support small and medium-sized enterprises. Beyond minimal bureaucracy, the association champions tax breaks, lower energy and social security costs, and fair international competitions. The IVSH fiercely critiques the European Green Deal's trajectory, advocating for regulations that better cater to the industry.
IVSH has upped its game in the political scene, initiating inquiries and discussions in Berlin and Brussels on matters ranging from weapons law to deforestation regulation.
IVSH’s Growing Clout and Strengthened Future
New players hopped on board at the year's beginning, bolstering IVSH's ranks by 12%. Notable additions include RÖSLE, DICK, and Weilburger Coatings. "With our fresh members, our community continues to expand, and thatfortifies us all," asserts IVSH Managing Director, Jan-Frederik Kremer.
Spite all hurdles, the cutlery and household goods industry stays optimistic about innovation and collaboration, aiming to overcome the current challenges and build a powerful sector where cutting-edge tech and timeless quality reign supreme.
- Amidst challenging financial circumstances, the Association of Cutlery and Household Goods (IVSH) appeals for government support, citing tax breaks, lower energy costs, and fair international competition as key necessities to ensure the long-term viability of small and medium-sized businesses in the industry.
- To bolster its influence, IVSH has expanded its membership base by 12%, with notable additions such as RÖSLE, DICK, and Weilburger Coatings. This growth strengthens the industry's position, promoting optimism towards innovation and collaboration in the face of adversity.
