Laufen
ActiveOverview
Laufen is a Swiss manufacturer of sanitary ceramics and bathroom products, founded in 1892, specializing in washbasins, toilets, bathtubs, and related systems produced exclusively in Europe.13 Part of the Roca Group since 1999, it operates five production sites in Switzerland, Austria, Czech Republic, and Poland, serving over 170 countries with a focus on design, quality, and sustainability.1
History
Laufen was founded in 1892 in Laufen, Switzerland, as a sanitary porcelain manufacturer during an era of poor sanitary standards.1 It joined the family-owned Roca Group in 1999, expanding its global presence to more than 170 countries.1 The company maintains production exclusively in Europe across five sites and has evolved from ceramics expertise to offering complete bathroom solutions including faucets and furniture.13
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| CLEANET (shower toilets) | Swiss reliability in hygiene solutions | $1,000 - $3,000 |
| Ceramic Sanitaryware (washbasins, toilets, bidets) | Innovative designs in premium ceramics | $200 - $2,500 |
| Bathtubs and Shower Trays | High-quality acrylic and mineral cast | $800 - $4,000 |
| Furniture and Mirrors | Coordinated bathroom storage systems | $300 - $2,000 |
| Faucets | Precision-engineered water controls | $150 - $1,800 |
| Installation Systems | Concealed framing for modern bathrooms | $400 - $1,500 |
Manufacturing
Laufen produces all products in five European sites: Laufen (Switzerland), Gmunden (Austria), Bechyně (Czech Republic), and Gliwice and Gryfice (Poland).1 Manufacturing emphasizes in-house Swiss precision ceramics with close integration of design and production.1
Notable Products
- CLEANET Shower Toilets - Collection known for Swiss reliability and hygiene features.
- Laufen Washbasins - Innovative ceramic designs from advanced manufacturing.
- Bathtubs - Acrylic and mineral cast options for complete bathroom solutions.
- Faucets - Precision products rooted in long-standing expertise.
- Installation Systems - Systems for concealed and unified bathroom integration.
Reputation
Laufen is regarded by professionals for its Swiss precision, European-only production, and ability to realize challenging designs in ceramics.1 Enthusiasts value its heritage in sanitaryware and shift to holistic solutions, though it faces competition in broader markets.13 Sustainability efforts are noted positively in its premium positioning.1