Wedoany.com Report on Mar 7th, The German printing press manufacturer manroland sheetfed GmbH has initiated protective shield insolvency proceedings, securing financial backing from its parent company, Langley Holdings plc, to address persistent losses and a shrinking market.

This restructuring procedure is similar to US Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, allowing management to continue operating the business under the supervision of a court-appointed monitor. Despite possessing technologically advanced products, the company has experienced a significant decline in sales and worsening losses in recent years, primarily due to falling demand for printing presses, especially in the Chinese market.

Since acquiring the manroland sheetfed division in 2012, Langley Holdings has provided continuous financial support. In 2025, the division incurred losses of €43.2 million, while the group's overall pre-tax profit was €152.3 million. Chairman Anthony Langley stated, "The board considers the current situation unsustainable and is evaluating options. However, we remain committed to supporting the printing businesses that rely on manroland equipment."

External restructuring expert Arndt Geiwitz noted, "manroland sheetfed GmbH has a viable core business but requires the implementation of radical measures to return to profitability." CEO Mirko Kien acknowledged that the restructuring would lead to job reductions and called for cooperation with trade unions to preserve the remaining positions.

The company plans to downsize through structural adjustments. Within the framework of the protective shield proceedings, experts from SGP Schneider Geiwitz and BUSE will assist in the restructuring, aiming to achieve business sustainability.