Lantal Textiles Acquire Wollspinnerei Huttwil
16 January 2008 17:03
Lantal Textiles, a leading manufacturer of textiles for soft aircraft, train, bus and cruise ship interiors, has acquired Wollspinnerei Huttwil. This step allows the company's former owners to ensure the long-term continuity their business and at the same time safeguards the future availability of premium yarns for Lantal.
As a bulk yarn buyer of long standing, Lantal Textiles acquired 100% of the capital stock of Wollspinnerei Huttwil from Josef and Marietheresa Schaller effective January 1, 2008. The Schaller family had managed the spinning mill for more than 30 years and has owned the company for 20 years. Currently, the mill employs 45 people.
TAKEOVER ENSURES PREMIUM QUALITY AND SECURITY OF SUPPLY
Lantal has been sourcing its woolen yarns from Wollspinnerei Huttwil for decades to produce its premium carpets for the international transportation industry. For these products, the quality of the yarns and assured availability are absolutely crucial. Urs Rickenbacher, CEO Lantal Textiles explains: "We are experiencing a briskly growing demand for carpets from the airline industry. With the integration of Wollspinnerei Huttwil into the Lantal Group, we are safeguarding our ability to offer premium products with high delivery reliability and genuine flexibility."
CONTINUITY UNDER A NEW MANAGEMENT
Josef Schaller, former owner and general manager of Wollspinnerei Huttwil, emphasized the importance of succession planning. His focus was on securing jobs and seamless continuity in serving loyal customers. Schaller maintains: "The acquisition of the mill by Lantal is the ideal solution for me as it respects the needs of all parties involved and offers Wollspinnerei Huttwil a stable, long-term future." He remains personally committed to the company as chairman of the board.
Andreas Christen has been appointed the new general manager. Mr Christen is an ETH graduate in production engineering and has been working for Lantal Textiles for three years, most recently as Engineering Project Manager. After an initial familiarization period, he will take over the operational leadership of Wollspinnerei Huttwil AG on July 1, 2008. No plans are in place for fundamental changes in daily business or as regards the experienced workforce.
For more information on this company:
Lantal Textiles - Aircraft Interior Fabrics and Transportation Fashion
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