Spreewald Pickle Producer to Retain Only 30 Jobs Amid Structural Changes in 2026
The renowned vegetable processing company Spreewaldkonserve, based in Golßen, Brandenburg, is set to reduce its workforce significantly by 2026 as it restructures its operations. Following a series of financial losses and shifts in market demand, the company has announced plans to retain only up to 30 permanent employees from next year, continuing a trend of job reductions that began earlier in the year.
Spreewaldkonserve, famous for its production of traditional pickled cucumbers, concluded its latest harvest season in October. The company, which has operated a year-round production cycle for decades, is now transitioning to a seasonal operating model. This change means that only core staff will be employed throughout the year, with temporary workers brought in during the peak harvest period in July and August. The majority of these seasonal workers are expected to come from Poland, as in previous years.
Earlier in the summer, Spreewaldkonserve disclosed its intention to part ways with approximately 200 permanent employees. The decision was attributed to mounting financial losses amounting to several million euros, which rendered the previous business model unsustainable. The company has also ceased operations at its Schöneiche facility, consolidating its activities in Golßen.
The move away from year-round production also signals a reduction in the variety of vegetables processed. While the company previously produced other products such as beetroot, red cabbage, and sauerkraut, the revised strategy focuses solely on cucumber processing during the harvest season, aligning resources with core competencies and market demand.
The Spreewald pickles, a product under protected designation of origin since 1999 within the European Union, remain a flagship item for the region and the company. Despite operational changes, the brand retains its strong identity and continues to be recognized across domestic and international markets.
In 2021, Spreewaldkonserve became part of the French food conglomerate Andros, known for brands such as Libby's and Bonne Maman. This acquisition was aimed at strengthening the company's market position and integrating it into a broader international network of food producers. However, despite this backing, the company has faced persistent economic challenges leading to the current restructuring efforts.
The anticipated reduction in staff and the shift to seasonal operations reflect broader trends within the agricultural processing industry, where increasing competition, changing consumer preferences, and rising operational costs are prompting companies to adapt their business models. Spreewaldkonserve's changes are seen as necessary measures to ensure the company's long-term viability and to preserve the tradition of Spreewald pickles, albeit on a smaller scale.
The company has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining high standards of production and quality for its signature pickles, while also expressing appreciation for the contributions of its departing workforce. The transition is expected to be completed ahead of the next harvest season, with local authorities and industry observers monitoring the impact on employment and regional agriculture.