For most of the twentieth century, the Durobor glass factory was one of the industrial symbols of Belgium’s Hainaut province. Founded in 1928, the company specialized in the production of drinking glasses and stemware. In 1935 it adopted the name ‘Dur-O-Bor’, derived from its patented reinforced glass rim, a feature that made its products especially resistant to chipping.

Durobor quickly became a pioneer in automated glass production. During its peak decades, the factory was among Europe’s leading glassware manufacturers. Its distinctive heavy-based glasses, became a recognizable feature in cafés, restaurants and hotels in over eighty countries. At its height, the company produced over one million glasses per week and employed hundreds of workers from the surrounding region.

The factory changed ownership several times during its history. It became part of an American group in 1960 before passing into Belgian hands in the 1980s. Despite periodic investments and modernization efforts, Durobor faced increasing competition from lower-cost producers and struggled with the high capital costs required by the glass industry. Financial difficulties emerged in the late 1990s and persisted for years.

After a series of restructurings, layoffs, and rescue attempts, Durobor finally declared bankruptcy in May 2019. Several proposals to revive production were explored, including a plan led by former employees, but none proved financially viable. By 2020, the furnaces had fallen silent, bringing nearly a century of glassmaking to an end.

Today, the vast factory complex stands abandoned. The former industrial site, covering more than nine hectares, is undergoing environmental remediation. Redevelopment plans intended to create new economic activity aim to preserve the memory of one of Wallonia’s most famous glassworks. Although the machines no longer operate, Durobor remains an important part of the industrial heritage and a reminder of Belgium’s once-thriving glass industry.