Swiss gift-wrapper goes bankrupt before Christmas

WOLHUSEN — Children around the world may be disappointed with their gift haul this Christmas because of the financial crisis. But for 123 employees of a Swiss company it's the lack of gift wrapping that will really hurt.

Decorative paper manufacturer Stewo AG said Tuesday it is packing up its 148-year-old business after deteriorating market conditions and a lack of available credit forced it to declare bankruptcy.

Stewo will lay off its entire staff of 123, it said in a statement released just after First Advent, the traditional start to the European Christmas shopping season, and Black Friday in the United States.

"We deeply regret that we have not found any other solution for our employees," said Alexander Pfeifer, chairman of Stewo, which makes boxes, gift wrapping and napkins.

The company said it would seek ways to soften the blow for former staff.

All of the company's loans were recently canceled as a result of the sharp tightening in credit conditions, it said. Stewo's board had sought to sell the company but failed as potential buyers refused to take on the loans.

Stewo was rescued by a group of companies two years ago. It was able to return to profitability last year and stayed in the black through the end of October.

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