KAHLA is one of the most successful German porcelain brands. In 2014, the company celebrated a double anniversary: 170 years of company history have passed since it was founded by Christian Eckardt in 1844 and 20 years since the company was re-established after reunification. Customers in 60 countries value the multifunctional KAHLA products for the home, the hotel and restaurant sector and appreciate the customised promotional porcelain for corporate clients.
From porcelain service to multifunctional series
Nobody would have expected this 20 years ago. Because in 1994, the long-established manufacturer was on the verge of collapse following the takeover by the Treuhand trust and bankruptcy. Along came a former Rosenthal manager with a vision: Günther Raithel rebuilt the company as KAHLA/Thüringen GmbH. Right from the start he pursued a consistent course of modernisation, not only for the company itself but also for the entire German dining culture.
With designer Barbara Schmidt at his side, Raithel re-thought the traditional material porcelain and brought it into the new millennium. KAHLA has since been awarded more than 100 international design awards for innovative product design, intelligent and environmentally friendly concepts.
Today, the Raithel family runs one of the most modern porcelain companies in Europe. A few years ago, the company founder passed the management to his son Holger Raithel.
Environmentally friendly, socially responsible and 100% made in Germany
Also in terms of its values, KAHLA is a family enterprise in the best sense. The company's success is geared towards years and generations. It incorporates an environmentally responsible production, a sustainable economic management and a socially responsible working environment as key objectives. With the pro Eco Seal, KAHLA vouches for its 100% commitment to a sustainable production in Germany. This secures approximately 300 jobs and 20 apprenticeship positions in Thuringia.
Young talent, a matter dear to the heart
For many years, KAHLA has been wholeheartedly promoting young talent. The best-known project is KAHLA kreativ, an international design workshop that takes place at irregular intervals. To strengthen the commitment to the advancement of young designers, artists and ceramists, the Günther Raithel Foundation was established in 2010.
