Veterans remember: This is how things continue at RKB Döbeln!

Veterans remember: This is how things continue at RKB Döbeln!

On October 28, 2025, the pensioners of the former body shop in Döbeln met for their quarterly meeting. These gatherings not only provide a platform for exchanging memories, but also provide an insight into the development of the company, now known as RKB Repair- and Bodywork GmbH. Years ago, B1000 bodies and box bodies were repaired here, but the repertoire has changed significantly.

The product range of today's RKB primarily includes vehicles for the postal service, refrigerated vans and a variety of special vehicles that are used in different areas. How Sächsische.de reports, after the fall of the Wall, the specialized bodies for sales, barbecue and snack vehicles shaped the range and have now become the company's core product.

From the past to the present

Especially around the turn of the millennium, activities expanded to include the production of special vehicles for the police, fire brigade and customs. These include emergency control vehicles as well as transport and service vehicles. A notable example are the fish sales vehicles and mobile medical practices, which are also part of the extensive portfolio.

The nostalgic reunions of former employees allow the veterans to not only share their personal stories, but also to reflect on the changing market in which they were active. As is well known, the automotive industry faces major challenges, such as: Statista shows. The switch to e-mobility, increasing trade conflicts and competition from China are putting the entire industry under pressure, which is also affecting local suppliers.

The future of the automotive industry

In 2024, sales in the German automotive industry fell for the first time since 2020. The industry is strongly export-oriented, with foreign sales of around 376.8 billion euros - almost 70% of total sales. German brands have historically maintained their leadership position in combustion vehicles in China, but they are now facing increasing challenges as Chinese suppliers offer larger EV model ranges and better quality reputations.

In addition to market developments, there are stricter regulations in Europe, including a ban on combustion engines from 2035. These developments make it difficult for companies like RKB to keep up with the big players in the industry, who have to invest in new technologies in order to remain competitive. Volkswagen is planning the series use of solid-state batteries and collaborations with companies like Rivian in the area of ​​vehicle software.

Overall, the RKB's former employees face the challenge of keeping up with the industry's movements while reminiscing about the past at their quarterly meetings. These meetings are more than just a nostalgic look back; They offer a lively dialogue about the changes in the industry, which bring with them both opportunities and risks.