Porphyry quarries in Rochlitz saved - new owner

The continued existence of Vereinigte Porphyrbrüche in Rochlitz is assured. After the company filed for insolvency in August, it has now been sold to the JUST Natursteingruppe in Hartha (Mittelsachsen district), according to insolvency administrator Reinhard Klose. "This ensures that 'Saxon marble' from Rochlitz will continue to be available." The purchase price was not disclosed.

The new owner is one of the largest natural stone producers and traders in Germany and has 145 employees, according to the company. The group also owns the Destag natural stone factory in Odenwald (Hesse), where gravestones are manufactured. According to the plans, the quarrying and sale of cast stones will continue in Rochlitz (Central Saxony district). In addition, the plant and the stone sawmill there are to be expanded.

Rochlitz porphyry can be found on many buildings

Porphyry has been quarried in Rochlitz for centuries. The volcanic rock with its reddish coloring can be found on many historic buildings such as town halls, castles and palaces. It is also used in gardening and landscaping. Since 2022, the Rochlitz porphyry has also been able to call itself a "Heritage Stone", awarded by the International Union of Geological Sciences. The porphyry tuff is the first German natural stone to receive this award.

The reason for the company's difficulties was a decline in orders. This affected five employees. Their jobs were secured with the takeover,