Madshus board proposes shutting down historic Biri ski factory
The Madshus AS board has recommended ending ski production at its Biri plant, with plans to move manufacturing to the new owner’s facility in the Czech Republic.
Madshus AS announced that its board intends to cease ski manufacturing at the Biri location, which dates back to 1906 and is the world’s oldest operating ski factory. The proposal follows a period of cumulative deficits and would relocate output to the new owner’s factory in the Czech Republic. CEO Torstein Myklebostad argued that decisive action is required to keep the Madshus brand viable, despite the emotional impact on employees who have worked at Biri for decades.
Union representative Torgeir Strandbakke said the staff expect a clear and orderly negotiation process with management. The plan could affect 32 positions in the production department, with a final decision expected within a few weeks.
Why it matters
The closure could end a century-old manufacturing tradition and affect dozens of jobs in Norway.
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