Historic Paper Manufacturer Faces Insolvency After 150 Years

A renowned paper manufacturing company, Köhlerpappen GmbH, has declared insolvency, marking a significant turn in its 150-year history. Located in Gengenbach, Baden-Württemberg, the company has specialized in producing high-quality paper products for the packaging and gaming industries. The official insolvency proceedings commenced on June 1, 2025, following an application filed in March of the same year.

The firm has encountered severe challenges due to soaring energy prices and a substantial decline in orders, leading to a reduced customer base both domestically and internationally. In an effort to navigate through this crisis, the company appointed a specialized economic law firm, BSK Berbuer Speier Kuhn, to oversee the preliminary insolvency proceedings. This firm, led by attorney Dr. André Berbuer, has already initiated initial restructuring measures.

Despite the difficult circumstances, Köhlerpappen GmbH remains optimistic about its future. The management has begun discussions with potential investors to secure the company's long-term viability. The team is also ensuring that the approximately 90 employees receive their salaries through advance funding for insolvency compensation.

The company has set ambitious environmental goals despite its financial challenges, aiming for 80% CO2 neutrality by 2030, which necessitates a reduction of 33,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually. To support this initiative, Köhlerpappen launched a biomass heating plant in 2023, expected to cut down emissions by 19,000 tons per year.

Historically, Köhlerpappen's roots can be traced back to the late 15th century, with its first documented mention in 1490 under the name "papiermühlin beym gutleuthaus." The company evolved significantly under the ownership of Albert Köhler and Jakob Marz, who took over in 1889 and modernized its operations. Following Marz's departure, Albert Köhler continued to innovate, focusing on hand and straw paper products.

The company has seen various transitions in leadership over the decades, with the Köhler family maintaining control and continuously pushing for modernization and improvement, particularly after World War II. The current management team, led by Christian Geiger since 2021, continues to uphold the company's legacy while adapting to contemporary market demands.

As Köhlerpappen GmbH navigates this challenging period, it seeks to leverage existing partnerships with customers and suppliers who remain supportive. The insolvency administrator, Dr. André Berbuer, expressed confidence in finding a viable solution for the company's future, emphasizing the constructive involvement of the workforce, labor representatives, and the management team in the restructuring efforts.