A soap-boiling plant established by Georg Schicht in 1848 served as the foundation for an industrial enterprise that transformed the economy of the Austrian Empire. By shifting operations to Ústí nad Labem in 1880, the business moved beyond local production to become a major manufacturer of candles, margarine, glycerin, and specialized food products.
Early Development and Relocation
The business originated as a modest domestic operation in Rynoltice. In 1878, Georg Schicht transferred control of the family factory to his four sons. Johann Schicht, recognized for his technical and operational aptitude, identified logistical limitations early on. He proposed relocating the factory to Ústí nad Labem in 1873 to facilitate easier transport of raw materials. By 1880, he executed this strategy by constructing a new facility between Kramoly and Novosedlice, which now lies within the Střekov district.
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Starting with only 12 employees in 1885, the company grew rapidly by diversifying its product line. Among its offerings were water glass, stearin, and the widely recognized soap with a stag, a product that remained on the market until 2002. Demonstrating a personal interest in social welfare, Schicht campaigned against alcoholism by introducing a fruit juice brand named Ceres. The Ceres name eventually expanded to cover various food products and persists as a legacy of the company’s marketing efforts.
Industrial Consolidation
The enterprise eventually evolved into an integrated industrial concern. It internalized its production chain by establishing an in-house mechanical engineering plant and a forge, while also operating dedicated coal mines and a power plant. The firm’s reach extended into the chemical and food processing sectors, with a new branch opening in Moravská Ostrava in 1906. By the time Johann Schicht converted the family firm into a joint-stock company in 1906, the business employed over 1,800 workers.
Legacy and Governance
In 1898, the Austrian government recognized Schicht’s industrial contributions with the title of Imperial Councilor. His management style mirrored that of contemporaries like Tomáš Baťa and Emil Škoda, focusing on modern technology, strategic marketing, and extensive social benefits for his labor force. Following his death in 1907, leadership of the company passed to his son, Heinrich Schicht. The original Georg Schicht trademark remained in use until 1951.
Fast facts
- Born: 8 March 1855, Rynoltice
- Died: 3 June 1907, Ústí nad Labem
- Citizenship: Bohemia
- Principal Industry: Soap and chemical manufacturing
- Company conversion to joint-stock: 1906
- Professional title: Imperial Councilor
- Notable product: Soap with a stag (mýdlo s jelenem)
- Workforce at death: Over 1,800 employees
Questions readers ask
What was the core product of the Schicht factory?
The primary products included soap, candles, margarine, water glass, stearin, glycerin, and various fruit juices.
When did the company change its corporate structure?
Johann Schicht converted the family business into a joint-stock company in 1906, shortly before his death.
