KAHLA introduces new oven and handling system

With a multimillion investment in a modern oven and handling system following the installation of a photovoltaic plant in 2010, KAHLA is setting a further milestone to ensure the "Made in Germany" porcelain production site. In November, the fully automated oven and handling system will be introduced into the Thuringia based family company together with workers, the companies involved in the development and representatives from the economy and politics as well as the media.

A team of external and internal specialists implemented the new construction with a mounting time of only three months. Directed by KAHLA management, the company marked out Lippert from Pressath for the construction of the entire handling system including the automated loading and unloading of plates, of hollowware and cups. The Keramische Ofenbau GmbH from Hildesheim carried out the installation for the expansion of the oven and oven circulating system.

Ecology and economy in harmony

"Thanks to this investment in new highly modern technology, we will achieve a clear saving in our consumption of gas and an increase in product quality“, explains the Managing Partner Holger Raithel. "In addition, the new system ensures the efficient processing of orders and reduces response times to the diverse wishes of customers“.

In contrast to the trend in the sector of cutting back on jobs in the ceramic industry, the KAHLA/Thüringen Porzellan GmbH is assuring around 300 jobs at the site through this measure. Furthermore, 14 new jobs are being created in various company areas.

Overall, the expansion of the production premises emphasises the company management"s clear commitment to quality porcelain from its own production site in Germany. With the introduction of the "Pro‑eco‑label“, KAHLA has bound itself to a sustainable development strategy which goes far beyond fulfilling international environmental, safety and quality requirements. Raithel: "As an employer, it is our social responsibility to orient KAHLA"s activity around ecological, economical and social principles.“