Libbey to become exclusive U.S. distributor of Bauscher

By AI, Created 10:54 AM UTC, May 20, 2026, /AGP/ – Libbey will take over exclusive U.S. distribution of the Bauscher brand on June 1, 2026, extending its nearly decade-long partnership with BHS tabletop AG. The move gives Libbey control of all four BHS tabletop brands in the U.S. and expands its premium tabletop lineup for foodservice customers.

Why it matters: - Libbey gains exclusive U.S. distribution rights for Bauscher, expanding its premium tabletop portfolio. - Foodservice operators and distributors will be able to source BHS tabletop AG brands through one U.S. partner. - The change consolidates distribution for BHS tabletop AG’s U.S. brands and could simplify ordering, service and supply coordination.

What happened: - Libbey said it will become the exclusive U.S. distributor of the Bauscher brand effective June 1, 2026. - All BHS tabletop AG brands in the U.S. — Bauscher, Schönwald, Playground and Heart & Soul — will be distributed exclusively by Libbey. - The expanded arrangement builds on a partnership that has run for nearly a decade. - Libbey will begin accepting customer orders for Bauscher products on May 1, 2026. - The company will feature Bauscher in its full tabletop portfolio at the National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago.

The details: - Libbey said the exclusive model creates a more customer-focused go-to-market approach. - Joe Huhn, Libbey’s chief commercial officer, said the partnership combines Bauscher’s porcelain craftsmanship with Libbey’s scale, service capabilities and customer-first approach. - Bauscher joins Libbey Select Partners, the company’s premium portfolio. - Libbey said the addition strengthens its offerings across glassware, dinnerware, flatware, serveware and buffetware. - Shipments are expected to begin after inventory is received, with substantial stock levels planned for early to mid-June. - BauscherHepp will continue fulfilling Bauscher orders through May 31, 2026, to maintain supply and customer support during the transition. - Libbey says its tabletop portfolio is designed to help customers bring creative visions to life, starting with the menu in mind.

Between the lines: - The shift gives Libbey a bigger role in the premium tabletop category without requiring a new brand launch. - The single-distributor model suggests BHS tabletop AG is prioritizing a simpler U.S. route to market and tighter customer coverage. - Libbey is using the deal to reinforce its position with higher-end hospitality buyers, not just broadline tabletop customers.

What’s next: - Libbey will take orders beginning May 1 and expects shipments to ramp up once inventory is in place. - Customers should see transition support through the end of May as BauscherHepp continues fulfillment. - The full BHS tabletop lineup will be on display at the National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago.