Gerhardi Kunststofftechnik GmbH, based in Germany and known for manufacturing emblems for Mercedes-Benz, has filed for bankruptcy. This decision stemmed from a reduced demand for their products amid a broader crisis affecting the European automotive sector.
Reports indicate that Gerhardi Kunststofftechnik GmbH struggled to navigate the obstacles presented by today’s European automotive landscape, particularly due to the falling demand for electric vehicles. Founded in 1796, the company weathered two world wars but ultimately went bankrupt in 2024.
Gerhardi declared bankruptcy after a prolonged decline in demand for its products. What will happen to its 1,500 employees is currently unknown. The German company began its journey more than two centuries ago with the production of metal products and then entered the automotive industry as a supplier of three-pointed “stars” for Mercedes-Benz.
Other suppliers are also being forced to cut production due to falling car sales. France’s Forvia SE (parts supplier to Volkswagen and Stellantis) is cutting thousands of jobs, Germany’s Webasto SE has accumulated debts worth one billion euros, and the large Swedish battery manufacturer Northvolt AB is also in financial difficulties. With further layoffs at Volkswagen, Stellantis, and Ford, the situation is sure to worsen.
Interestingly, Gerhardi is not the only Mercedes-Benz star manufacturer to go bankrupt in recent years. Less than three years ago, the same happened to BIA Forst.
The crisis in Europe is gaining momentum. The announcement of factory closures, wage cuts, and the layoffs of tens of thousands of workers are just a consequence of the transition brought about by electromobility.
