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The traditional textile industry in the canton of Glarus is getting back on its feet after the pandemic and is trying to reorient itself.
The corona pandemic has left its mark in Glarnerland, also in the textile industry: the 150-year-old weaving mill Jenny Fabrics in Niederurnen, for example, has shut down production and no longer weaves fabrics. And the textile printing company Mitlödi filed for bankruptcy two years ago. 33 employees lost their jobs. Until then, they had printed or designed textiles that were shipped all over the world.
In the meantime, however, the textile printing machines in Mitlödi are running again. Thanks to the financial support of the landlord. In the meantime, he has temporarily taken over the factory. “This gives us a chance, at least temporarily, to move things forward,” says company boss Hans Blesi.
I’m a fighter who never lost hope.
For example, fabrics for army uniforms and tents are being printed again. The owner is now looking for a sustainable solution.
In recent years, the production of textiles has increasingly been outsourced abroad. Glarner Economics Director Marianne Lienhard emphasizes the importance of the textile industry: “We have to be prepared for the future.” On the one hand in the industry, on the other hand with the employees.
Vacant textile factories are also converted. Also an opportunity for government councilor Lienhard: “For example, service companies or data processors can be relocated.”
Textile industry must realign itself
Today 30 employees work in Mitlödi. It used to be 130. Everyone has to lend a hand everywhere. The commercial employees can also be found at work in the warehouse from time to time.
Legend:
An employee of the textile printing company Mitlödi processes color using the screen printing method. The picture is from 2014.
Keystone / Christian Beutler
Creativity is required. This is confirmed by Max Gugelot, Operations Manager at Weseta Textil AG. The canton of Glarus is a good location: “We have specialists here,” he says. “We can tell a good story with the mountains. The customers like that.”
Bath towels for Japanese households
“We produce high-quality terry towels, which of course have their price,” says Max Gugelot, describing the products of the family business. But the product is in demand, for example in Japan, where, according to the company, contract negotiations are underway with the largest Japanese retailer of terry towels.
“Swiss customers also appreciate high-quality cloths,” adds Conrad Peyer, the owner of Weseta Textil AG. He is the third generation to lead the family business. “Home” has gained in importance during the pandemic.
The home has gained in importance during the pandemic.
However, the financial pressure remains high. In order to survive, the textile printing company Mitlödi AG increasingly relies on cooperation with local artists and designers and produces for local customers.
The latest example: the Federal Wrestling Festival in Glarus, which commissioned the printing of its own Glarner towels. The printing machines in Mitlödi will continue to run until a sustainable solution is found for the factory.