Founded in 1914, ESW-Röhrenwerke in Eschweiler became a leading manufacturer of seamless steel pipes for industry, energy, and mechanical engineering. Known for its high-quality production and advanced techniques, the company faced growing pressure from global competition and falling steel prices.

After a bankruptcy in 2015, a brief restart followed, but the factory closed permanently on March 31, 2020. This marked the end of an important chapter in the region’s industrial history. The site is now being redeveloped, but ESW remains a symbol of over a century of craftsmanship and steel production.