Groupe Brandt’s collapse is not an isolated case. It reflects a growing crisis in Europe’s white goods sector, where even market leaders are under pressure.

– BSH Group, Europe’s largest appliance manufacturer, recently confirmed it will shutter two German plants—Nauen (washing machines) by mid-2027 and Bretten (cookers and hoods) by early 2028—resulting in 1,400 job losses. Production will shift to lower-cost European sites.
– Electrolux continues its restructuring efforts amid rising debt and liquidity concerns, despite recent strong performance.
– Miele has already relocated washing machine production from Germany to Poland, citing cost pressures.

The Bigger Picture: Europe’s Manufacturing Squeeze

The European appliance industry is being squeezed from all sides:

– 📈 Rising energy and labor costs
– 🏛️ Regulatory and bureaucratic burdens
– 🌏 Aggressive competition from Asian—especially Chinese—manufacturers

Brandt’s liquidation is a stark reminder that legacy, innovation, and even public support may not be enough to withstand today’s economic headwinds without private sector confidence