Protests against the shutdown of Playmobil production in Franconia - Playmobil shuts historic German factory, risking 350 jobs after decades

Playmobil has announced plans to close its historic production site in Dietenhofen, Middle Franconia. The move puts 350 jobs at risk and follows years of financial struggles for the toy manufacturer. Just a week earlier, company executives had spoken optimistically about a turnaround at the Nuremberg toy fair.

The Dietenhofen plant has manufactured Playmobil figures for over 50 years. Despite its long history, the company has faced declining sales, losing more than a third of its revenue in recent times. Workers responded quickly to the closure news, with around 120 employees from early and late shifts staging a protest outside the factory.

The Horst Brandstätter Group, Playmobil's parent company, has not revealed exact details about where production will move. Official statements only mention relocating to 'other facilities within the existing international production network.' Industry observers suggest Malta, Spain, and the Czech Republic as likely destinations.

The Industrial Union of Mining, Chemicals, and Energy (IGBCE) has called the shutdown a mistake. Union representatives and the works council have vowed to keep up pressure on management, demanding negotiations for alternatives to the closure.

The closure threatens a major local employer with deep roots in the region. Workers and unions are pushing back, but the company has yet to offer concrete solutions. Production at Dietenhofen is expected to end unless negotiations bring a last-minute change.