Another legend in the automotive world bites the dust. This time, it’s the turn of Recaro Automotive, the revered seat manufacturer. According to a report from Autobild, the company has filed for bankruptcy in Germany this week.

Recaro is synonymous with high-performance automotive seating. Not only is it the go-to brand for aftermarket enthusiasts, but it's also a trusted supplier for major OEMs like Ford, Honda, BMW, and many more. If you've sat in a sporty car, chances are those seats bore the Recaro badge.

The company is divided into several segments: Recaro Automotive, Recaro Aircraft Seating, Recaro Child Safety, and Recaro Gaming. Four years ago, the automotive division, responsible for all OEM and aftermarket seats, was acquired by the private investment firm Raven Acquisitions LLC. The irony isn't lost on us that a firm named after a bird of doom and gloom has brought about the downfall of this automotive giant.

Reports suggest that Recaro Automotive employees were blindsided by the bankruptcy filing. It’s emerged that staff had deferred or waived their salaries for years in a bid to stabilize the company’s finances.

The fate of Recaro Automotive’s 215 employees now hangs in the balance, with mass layoffs looming large. The industry loses another titan, and enthusiasts around the world are left to wonder what’s next for the once-mighty Recaro.