Zimmer Austria: Tony Naschberger steps down

After nearly 50 years with Zimmer Austria, Tony Naschberger stepped down from his role as Senior Advisor to J. Zimmer Maschinenbau GmbH as of 30 June 2025. As long-time Managing Director, he played a key role in shaping the company’s technological development.

Vandewiele: Textile machinery manufacturer reports millions in losses

Belgium-based Vandewiele Group, a global supplier of systems and machinery for the textile industry – in particular weaving machines – closed 2024 with a drop in turnover from EUR 785 M to EUR 605 M and a net loss of EUR 47 M. The result was weighed down by geopolitical uncertainty in key export markets.

Hammer stores: Self-administered insolvency filed – operations to continue

The Brüder Schlau Group, which includes the nationwide Hammer retail chain, filed for insolvency under self-administration on June 26th, 2025. The application has already been approved by the district court in Bielefeld. The company cites structural challenges in the market environment and ongoing financial pressures as reasons for the move. According to an official press release, all Hammer stores are expected to remain open.

Kibek: Manuel Colpo takes over as Head of Sales

Since June 1st, Manuel Colpo has been the new Head of Sales at the carpet retail chain Kibek. He succeeds Daniel Voigt and is now responsible for the company’s 16 locations throughout Germany. Colpo brings extensive industry experience to the role, having previously served as Head of Sales at Depot and in a senior position at Lidl.

Lano fully acquired by Belgotex

According to the online portal Made in, textile group Belgotex (which includes Associated Weavers and Balsan) has acquired 100% of Lano. The group, led by Stephan Colle, had already taken a 60% stake in Lano in 2022, while the remaining 40% were held by the Lano family.

Flanders Flooring Days 2025 with more exhibitors and visitors

The fourth edition of Flanders Flooring Days took place in Kortrijk and the surrounding area from 2 to 5 June. Local companies, including Balta Home, Osta Carpets, Ragolle and Verbatex, presented themselves in 17 regional showrooms, while over 100 other international brands exhibited at The Hub exhibition centre in Kortrijk.

Rugvista moves into new corporate site in Malmö

Online retailer Rugvista has moved into its new corporate site on Lodgatan in Malmö. The 13,700 sqm facility combines headquarters, warehouse, and logistics operations under one roof.

Mercury Flooring restructures ownership and executive management

Belgian manufacturer MercuryFlooring, known for its mats and carpet tiles, has restructured its ownership as part of a management buy-out. CFO Lorenzo Boulaert, COO Michel Verstraeten, and CCO Alexander Broos have jointly taken over the company.

Domotex Asia/Chinafloor 2025 sees record international participation

The 27th edition of Domotex Asia/Chinafloor further strengthened its role as the leading flooring platform in Asia. Held from May 26th to 28th at the NECC Shanghai, the show attracted 83,056 trade visitors from 124 countries – a new record in terms of country representation. Among them were 18,121 international visitors.