A company in the West Flanders textile industry has laid down its books, marking the end for the company and the loss of work for some 40 employees, mostly labourers. The news is confirmed by several Belgian media outlets. The company in question is the Deerlijk carpet company Devos-Caby, also known as DC Carpets.
Devos-Caby's premises in Deerlijk.
End of an established name
A well-known name in the carpet sector for many years, Devos-Caby was known for its machine-made carpets. This year, the company was actually due to celebrate its 75th anniversary. Despite its strong reputation, the company has increasingly faced economic challenges in recent years. Rising raw material prices, increasing competition and a changing market led to a difficult financial situation, eventually resulting in the shutdown of operations.
Major impact on employees
The closure of the company involves some 40 employees. For them, it means an uncertain future, as the textile sector in Flanders has been under pressure in recent years. The affected employees are mainly blue-collar workers, who must now look for new employment in an industry that has been facing restructuring and bankruptcies for some time.
Broader economic problem
Devos-Caby is not the only company to go bust this week. A total of 20 West Flanders companies had to close down. The textile industry in Flanders is struggling due to rising production costs, declining demand and international competition.
Further developments
It is not yet clear whether there are possibilities for a relaunch or takeover. More clarity will emerge in the coming weeks on the further resolution of the bankruptcy and the consequences for employees.
More information:
Devos-Caby | DC Carpets
www.dccarpets.com
Forty employees fear for their jobs