News

Carl Zeiss Sports Optics GmbH has announced that it will end production of hunting and nature observation optics at its Wetzlar facility by the end of 2026, in a move that marks a significant operational shift for one of Germany’s most iconic optical manufacturing sites. The decision, while not amounting to a full site closure, reflects broader structural changes within the premium optics industry and ZEISS’s evolving product strategy.

A wholly owned subsidiary of Carl Zeiss AG, Carl Zeiss Sports Optics is globally recognised for its high-end binoculars, spotting scopes, and riflescopes. The company confirmed that production of analogue premium optics in Wetzlar will continue until the end of 2026, after which operations will be realigned to support future growth areas. ZEISS emphasised that customer service, logistics, warehouse operations, and quality assurance will remain based in Wetzlar.

Although the company did not disclose the number of employees affected, consultations with staff representatives are underway to manage the transition responsibly. Industry sources suggest that the change could affect dozens of roles currently tied to production.

In a statement issued on 4 June, ZEISS highlighted the growing significance of digital technologies—including the rapid rise of trail cameras—as a central reason for the decision. While analogue optics will remain a core component of the company’s portfolio, ZEISS acknowledged a “permanent shift” in market dynamics, with increasing competition, shifting consumer expectations, and cost pressures driving the need to modernise internal processes and structures.

“Are ZEISS passionately committed to Hunting & Nature now and for the future? Absolutely,” the company said. “These plans aim to strengthen ZEISS’s position in relevant market segments.”

Since acquiring Ventrade GmbH in 2023, ZEISS has established a new business unit focused on trail cameras and app-connected nature observation tools. That segment has shown what the company describes as “strong, dynamic growth” in Europe. At the same time, traditional product lines such as the Conquest and SFL binocular series have been relaunched with enhanced performance during 2024/25.

The changes come as ZEISS continues to scale its presence in high-growth sectors, including its Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology (SMT) division. A new multifunctional facility in Wetzlar’s Dillfeld district—currently under construction—is set to provide 12,000 square metres of production and development space and will employ approximately 500 people upon completion in 2026.

While the phasing out of optics manufacturing marks the end of an era for Wetzlar, a city long associated with German optical engineering, ZEISS insists the decision is part of a forward-looking strategy. The company will continue to invest in its global hunting, birding, and observation business, with an expanded focus on digital capabilities, product innovation, and retailer collaboration.