"While working as the manager of the colour laboratory in the ORWO film factory in Wolfen (Saxony-Anhalt), I dreamed of the day when I'd no longer have to worry about sourcing spare parts and materials – and then came the fall of the Wall. Much of the problem had to do with the Swiss and West German technology being incompatible with the obsolete photo paper from the former USSR and with the outmoded processes. Needless to say, this resulted in accidents and disruptions. Customers were understandably unhappy with the quality and delivery times. Orders came in for a wide range of products, from the mass image through to extra-large posters for exhibitions and advertising. During the course of my work as a manager for nearly twelve years, the pooled experience of approximately 150 employees (for the most part women) meant we were better able to cope with what was often demoralizing work. It wasn't possible to just follow a rigid plan in the pursuit of good quality; rather, it was also necessary to motivate the employees since they weren't responsible for the economy of scarcity. And the best way of doing this was by making quality products which, despite all the obstacles, customers and professionals appreciated.
With the fall of the Wall and reunification, the surplus capacity of the West German lab meant there was no more need for the laboratory and skilled personnel in Wolfen. Very few people were able to continue with their profession; many struggled with being made redundant overnight. People were lucky to find whatever work they could. And this made for a bitter change in life and work. It was also hard to witness the demolition of the former factory buildings, and with them, witness the disappearance of our jobs.
For me personally, retiring at 55 wasn't a viable option and I was fortunate enough to find a job as a representative for PHOTO PORST where I was once again able to work with films, photos and cameras. This time I didn't have to manage shortages, rather, my task now was to procure the maximum amount of goods for the highest possible price – otherwise I wouldn't get any commission."
Horst Eilhardt
