Chapter 7
Chapter 7: Expansion of Production
The flames of German nationalism were ablaze, uniting the entire German region under a common patriotic fervor. This collective sentiment compelled people to rally behind their cause.
Meanwhile, the nobles and capitalists in Prussia continued their ceaseless pursuits. Prussia's rapid development required new territories and markets. Schleswig, with its robust economy and dense population, became a natural target, especially considering Denmark's recent attempt to annex Schleswig, providing Prussia with a justifiable reason.
Preparations for war were in motion, and Prussia's exceptional mobilization capabilities ensured the army was ready. This was done discreetly, as Prussia was already perceived as a militaristic nation in the eyes of Europe, and troop movements didn't raise eyebrows.
Amidst these preparations, Prussia's arsenal secretly increased production, and Ernst's factory found itself working overtime. Ernst had even recruited a young man connected to Prince Constantine, understanding the importance of having connections to sell his products to the army.
Ernst and his father presented the advantages of their products in detail, emphasizing that supplying the Prussian army with their cigarettes would significantly enhance its combat effectiveness. They avoided discussing the harmful effects of tobacco, focusing instead on its revitalizing qualities for tired soldiers.
Prince Constantine, while not initially enthusiastic, showed keen interest in the kerosene lighter. He examined it closely and appreciated its compact design, with the thoughtful addition of a twine bracelet for easy portability.
Ernst had also produced small kerosene lighters, ideal for soldiers. These could fit in a pocket and attach to a belt, providing a practical tool for starting fires. Cigarettes and lighters had been specifically designed for wartime use, packaged accordingly.
The next day, Prince Constantine took a kerosene lighter and some cigarettes to the Prussian palace. With his aristocratic standing and connections, Constantine ensured that Ernst's new products received orders from the army.
Production had already begun, and the cigarettes and kerosene lighters were swiftly dispatched to military barracks and logistics warehouses. Ernst recognized the economic opportunities presented by war, where the military paid promptly.
However, this prosperity depended on well-ordered countries; forced expropriation could spell disaster. The military orders repaid the initial investment, motivating Ernst to expand production further.
War didn't end overnight, and more orders would follow. Simultaneously, sales through other channels needed bolstering. Ernst intended to continue his collaboration with Austria, having had success in the past.
Upon Ernst's orders, various departments of the Hechingen Development Company sprang into action. The sales department faced increased demands, accelerating the sales of new products and prioritizing advertising.
Simultaneously, salesmen were hired, forming networks that extended to the surrounding countries of Germany. This reminded Ernst of the vendors who had sold water purifiers in his previous life, but this time, he was selling genuine quality products.
The factories worked overtime to meet demand, but Ernst remained dissatisfied, not because he wanted to expand production further, but because he desired to enter new markets.
With ample funds and profitable industries at his disposal, Ernst decided to establish a research and development center and hire engineers to innovate daily necessities. He also intended to set up an electric power research institute, allocating funds for the purpose.
The Hechingen Development Company began advertising job openings in various cities like Berlin, Bonn, Stuttgart, and Munich to attract talent. Ernst aimed to transform his company into a research and development enterprise, part of the first step in industrial upgrading.
As Prussia and Austria continued their military preparations, trains crisscrossed the German region, soldiers gathered for large-scale drills, and the impending war loomed closer. Ernst had already begun preparing for the upcoming conflict, anticipating economic gains.
Even though he mourned in advance for the Danes, he secretly hoped that they would put up a strong fight to prolong the war, as this would provide more opportunities for profit. Such is the cold and heartless nature of capitalism.
Ernst understood the profit potential of war and eagerly anticipated his enterprise's share of the upcoming feast. War was not just about ideology; it was an opportunity for capitalists to thrive.
(End of Chapter 7)