The manufacturer of iconic glass is coming back to life. They even expect to make a profit.

On August 1, 2024, the Commercial Court of Orléans issued a decision approving the continued existence of Duralex, this time as a worker-participation cooperative (SCOP).

More than 60 people employed in the production of glassware and tempered glass glasses and stemware, as well as raw material suppliers and wholesalers, invested their funds, which allowed the company to resume operations and fire up the glass furnace.

Duralex was founded in 1945 by Saint-Gobain and was the first to introduce products to the market that were resistant to breakage and mechanical damage.

For years, this technology was unique in the world, and plates, glasses and ovenware from this company were found in almost every home.

However, during the coronavirus pandemic, sales dropped sharply , and additionally, competition from cheap products from Chinese manufacturers led to huge financial problems for Duralex.

Rising energy and gas prices led to Duralex going bankrupt

Russian aggression against Ukraine in 2022 led to sharp increases in natural gas and energy prices, which made it necessary to shut down the furnace and suspend production for several months.

The French government granted the company a €15 million low-interest loan to resume operations, but CO2 emissions fees became a new burden.

The explanations that Duralex produces long-lasting, reusable, and environmentally friendly glass products proved futile. Fees were levied, leading to the declaration of bankruptcy.

Duralex estimates revenues at €32 million this year

After a year under the new ownership structure, Duralex has slowly begun to gain momentum. Revenue for this year is estimated at €32 million, with a small net profit expected.

Exports to Japan and the Middle East have resumed, and tempered glass products are also starting to sell well in the European market, thanks to the trend for kitchen furnishings inspired by the 1980s.