German flash manufacturer Multiblitz goes into liquidation
Dec 7, 2017
John Aldred
John Aldred is a photographer with over 25 years of experience in the portrait and commercial worlds. He is based in Scotland and has been an early adopter – and occasional beta tester – of almost every digital imaging technology in that time. As well as his creative visual work, John uses 3D printing, electronics and programming to create his own photography and filmmaking tools and consults for a number of brands across the industry.
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The death of Bowens earlier in the year was met with surprise from many photographers. But it paints a fairly clear picture. That even though more people are using flash now than ever before, some flash companies are struggling. Perhaps it’s a lack of innovation or lacklustre customer support. Maybe they simply can’t keep up with the demand. Or it could simply be good old-fashioned competition.
Whatever the reason, the flash landscape is changing. The gear’s evolving, new faces are appearing and old ones are leaving. Another very familiar face that’s leaving now is German flask maker Multiblitz. After 69 years in the industry, they’re calling it quits.
A statement released by Multiblitz a few days ago states that they actually filed for bankruptcy at the end of October. The hope was that a new owner would acquire and save the company. Unfortunately, however, no such new owner has been found.
Cologne, On 30/10/2017, the management of Multiblitz Mannesmann GmbH filed for bankruptcy with the District Court of Cologne.
It is envisaged that already acquiring acquirers take over the operation from the administration so that the business can be continued at short notice under new partners.
The business operation is currently under the administration of Mr. RA. Mark Boddenberg continues unrestricted, so that our customers Multiblitz products and services continue to be fully available.
Multiblitz Mannesmann GmBH (Google Translated)
Lighting Rumours reports that an email was sent to distributors in which they said :
We deeply regret to inform you that the intention to continue with the Multiblitz company under new ownership could not be implemented last week.
After almost 70 years we must say farewell to the photo industry. We thank you for your trust and the great collaboration during the past years and wish you all the best from your business.
Like Bowens, Multiblitz had been around for a long time. A very well respected company for many years producing great equipment, it was not uncommon to see their kit being recommended.
It’s a shame to see another big established brand disappear. But, you have to innovate and keep up to survive in business these days. There’s just so much more competition out there.
[via Lighting Rumours]
John Aldred
John Aldred is a photographer with over 25 years of experience in the portrait and commercial worlds. He is based in Scotland and has been an early adopter – and occasional beta tester – of almost every digital imaging technology in that time. As well as his creative visual work, John uses 3D printing, electronics and programming to create his own photography and filmmaking tools and consults for a number of brands across the industry.
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9 responses to “German flash manufacturer Multiblitz goes into liquidation”
The Godox-effect.
No not really – the effect of not meeting market requirements until too late and then at too higher price! I’ve been using Mutliblitz for nearly 40 of their 69 years and will be sad to see them go.
“the effect of not meeting market requirements until too late and then at too higher price” is exacly the opposite of the Godox effect.
The Godox effect simply means innovating, inventing and always thinking one step ahead to make photography simple and fun and at VERY reasonable price.
The Godox effect can be seen in different aspect of photography and by other companies, mainly from China. Neweer, Selens and Meike are a few of those who make excellent product for so much cheaper than the stuck up “industry standard”.
Not like before, we now have options!
I’m very concerned where am I gonna find my flash bulbs replacements? I have a lot of Multiblitz Strobes :( are they gonna go useless with our replacements?
They charged too much?
Cheaper Chinese and LED technology as well as HSS speed lights, not to mention high ISO quality.
Never heard of them unlike Bowens which was very well known.
Godox won my admirations.
I’m very concerned where am I gonna find the flash bulbs replacements? I
have a lot of Multiblitz Strobes :( are they gonna go useless with our
replacements?