The history of Brilliant AG
It all began with the founding of "Brillantglashütte OHG" in Gnarrenburg, Lower Saxony, in 1951, from which Brilliant AG developed as one of the leading suppliers of residential and outdoor lighting in Europe.
1950s
In 1951, the "Brillantglashütte OHG / Lippold und Tschammer" is founded in Gnarrenburg (Lower Saxony). Hand-blown lighting glass (for light bulbs) is produced. The location is ideal for this, as the regional peat and quartz sand deposits can be used for the production of glass. Production continues to develop and the first steps are taken towards exclusive luminaire production.
1960s
Due to new trends in the lighting market, production is once again evolving. Now, not only glass elements are used for the production of lighting fixtures, but new materials such as wood, metal and plastic are added.
1970s
In the 70s, the new orientation envisages that in future the company will no longer manufacture all components itself, but will concentrate more on finishing technology and the assembly of luminaires through bought-in parts. The development of the luminaire business progresses rapidly, so that many additional jobs can be created in the region. The company is also renamed "Brillantleuchten AG".
1980s
This decade also brings further changes in product development. The focus shifts from glass to spotlights and metal pendant luminaires. Further expansion also increased the need for capital, which is why the company, which was still owned by the Lippold family, was listed on the stock exchanges in Frankfurt and Bremen in 1985.
1990s
New decade - new name. The last renaming of the company takes place in 1991, when "Brilliantleuchten AG" becomes "Brilliant AG" in the course of internationalisation. In addition, from 1994 to 1997 the "Brilliant Industrial Park" is built with new warehouse buildings and a high-bay warehouse. By the end of the 1990s, the export share had increased to almost 50%.
2000s
The new millennium begins turbulently for Brilliant. Increasing competition on the European market and enormous price pressure make it necessary to relocate production abroad. This means that sales, administration, construction/design and all logistics remain at the Gnarrenburg site. In 2004, the British The National Lighting Company Ltd. becomes a major shareholder and ensures a successful turnaround, enabling Brilliant to return to profitability in 2006.
2010s until today
In 2014, Brilliant establishes an innovation centre in China and dedicates itself mainly to the new LED technology, which begins to establish itself at this time. With a focus on technological aspects and new design possibilities that LEDs bring with them, Brilliant once again demonstrates future viability. The result is a range with a unique selling proposition. Since 2015, Brilliant has also been the exclusive sales partner for licensed lighting products from the renowned AEG brand. This opens up new opportunities to tap into previously untapped potential in the trade.
Brilliant celebrates its 70th anniversary in 2021.