The Continental Group will cease production of rolls and sleeves for industry by the end of the year. This withdrawal particularly affects industrial applications, notably the printing sector. The reasons put forward by the Group are based on a market that has become too competitive, a difficult economic environment and uncontrolled costs. This decision marks a turning point for the graphics industry.
Competitive pressure and high production costs
Continental's decision comes at a time when increased competition and rising costs have made it difficult to maintain margins in certain industrial sectors, including printing. The cost-cutting initiative launched in 2021 has not produced the expected results.
Andreas Bakenhus, Managing Director of Continental, "Despite all our efforts, the headwinds from the difficult market environment were too strong".
Impact on Waltershausen site and employees
The cessation of production activities will mainly affect the Waltershausen site in Germany, where around a thousand people are employed. However, some twenty employees directly involved in the manufacture of rollers and sleeves will be particularly affected by this measure. This redeployment could pose challenges in terms of retraining or redundancies for the employees concerned.
The end of rolls and sleeves: what are the alternatives for printers?
The discontinuation of roll and sleeve production raises questions for printers using these components in their processes. In particular, sleeves will be withdrawn from Continental's portfolio. Printers will have to turn to other manufacturers to ensure continuity of production. However, this transition may lead to disruptions in the supply chain, and even cost increases for industry players.
Offset blankets: a pillar in the portfolio
Unlike rollers and sleeves, Continental has confirmed that products such as offset blankets will remain in its offering. This demonstrates the Group's determination to maintain a link with the printing industry, while refocusing on segments deemed more economically viable. Printers using offset technologies should therefore be less affected by these decisions, ensuring a certain stability in this area.
