Marking the end of a chapter in Swiss textile history, AG Cilander is to close its doors by the end of August 2024 at the latest, due to the increasing challenges it has faced in operating from the high-cost country.

Founded in 1814, Schilander has specialised in the finishing of clothing fabric and technical textiles with an annual production of around 16 million running metres at three Swiss plants at its headquarters in Herisau, as well as in Flawil and Lützelflüh. It exports to over 80 countries.

“Switzerland is an excellent location for development and production and our customers and business partners value the quality, origin and sustainability of our products,” said CEO Dr Burghard Schneider. “However, it is clear that the end consumer may not fully appreciate the benefits of quality, short supply chains, and ecologically, economically, and socially sustainable business practices, which can result in higher costs and prices. It is important for all of us as end consumers to rethink our priorities, because otherwise our customers will lose their businesses too. Without the business of our loyal customers, Cilander is not able to sustain its operations. And without Cilander, the Central European textile industry is losing another important player.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank our long-standing and loyal customers and suppliers and we would also like to thank our employees. Our great team consists of highly skilled, experienced, committed and empathetic individuals.”

www.cilander.com