By Editor Morten B. Reitoft. 

Almost all vendors have experienced difficulties getting parts during and after the pandemic. This lead to huge problems delivering finished products to customers and, therefore, difficulties getting payments released. Yesterday, August 30th, the well-known and recognized family-owned company Polar Mohr had to file for insolvency protection while seeking options for reconstruction.

Polar Mohr has for centuries produced guillotines for printing companies and, as stated on print.de, exported almost 80% of their entire production.

The sad story is a clear example that you can continue to sell excellent products, but if even a minor part of the parts of the machines can't be supplied, the consequences are enormous. 

The changes in supply continue to be a problem, though more and more suppliers report that the delivery situation is getting better - though at a much higher price level. Whether a better supply situation can save Polar Mohr is, of course, too early to say. Still, as Polar Mohr is reported to be solvent, the situation is much up to what kind of solutions the legal advisors will suggest. 

With the general changes in the printing industry, I believe it's likely that Polar Mohr will be sold to a competitor who will then be able to deliver support and continue the development of the machines! This is, of course, pure speculation, but with increased competition in a decreasing market, I believe this is a likely outcome. Sad for the family owning Polar Mohr, but still better than leaving customers with no support and no short-term options!

Polar Mohr today employs 380 people in Hofheim, Germany, and for the time being, salaries are secured, but, of course, a sad situation for all involved.