Lenzing plant sale decision expected by year-end

The future of Lenzing’s fibre plant in Heiligenkreuz, in the Jennersdorf district, should be decided by the end of the year, ORF’s Burgenland service reported. The company’s supervisory board will then determine whether to sell the plant or close it.

Lenzing announced in late July that it would stop producing the textile fibre Lyocell at the plant, saying the operation did not fit the group’s strategic realignment. The decision affected about 285 employees. Production, initially due to end this year, has since been extended until the end of March 2027.

Thirty potential investors have expressed interest in buying the plant. A shortlist of the strongest candidates is expected in mid-November, giving them access to detailed documents and databases. By the end of December, it should be clear whether any serious offers remain.

Lenzing has declined to provide details about the interested parties, citing confidentiality, and says it is preparing for both a sale and a closure.

Workers are uncertain but remain optimistic, according to a works council representative. There have been no significant staff departures, and employees hope a new owner will continue operations. The number of interested buyers is seen as an encouraging sign for the plant, which is important to the region. Long-serving managing director Bernd Zauner also hopes the business will continue.