Hörmann: A Legacy of Innovation and Responsibility in Garage Door Manufacturing
For nearly a century, Hörmann has been a name synonymous with quality in the garage door industry. Founded in 1935 by August Hörmann in Bielefeld, Germany, the company has evolved from delivering its first steel door to becoming Europe's leading manufacturer of garage doors and a wide array of related products. The company's success can be traced through generations, with August's son Hermann taking the reins post-World War II. The pivotal moment for Hörmann came in 1952 when Hermann secured the production rights to the Glenn Berry garage door, setting a standard for modern designs that continue to be in use today.
Richard Thomsen, the CEO of Hörmann Svenska AB, highlights the company's deep roots in garage door manufacturing, noting that it has become a cornerstone of the Hörmann family legacy. "It’s in our genes," he stated. Upon joining the company four years ago, Thomsen was impressed not only by the established reputation of Hörmann for quality products but also by the remarkably low number of complaints and warranty claims they received, a testament to their manufacturing excellence.
While garage doors remain at the heart of Hörmann's offerings, the company has significantly broadened its product range. Thomsen emphasizes Hörmann’s innovative spirit, driven by the family’s commitment to continuous improvement. Today, Hörmann operates over 40 factories that produce not only garage doors but also a variety of steel doors, gates, tool sheds, and complete industrial solutions. This expansion into comprehensive safety and security offerings is a strategic move, as businesses today increasingly require reliable perimeter protection, which Hörmann is well-positioned to provide.
Investment in infrastructure is a core strategy for Hörmann. In 2024, the company plans to launch two new factories dedicated to manufacturing barriers and swing doors, signaling their ongoing commitment to meet the growing demands from both private and industrial sectors. In Sweden, for instance, the company deploys a team of over 60 service technicians who conduct regular visits to ensure that products remain operational and secure.
Thomsen stresses the importance of service and preventive maintenance, which not only ensures product reliability but also safeguards compliance with safety regulations. "Our service agreements offer customers peace of mind, ensuring that any potential disruptions are proactively addressed," he explained. This customer-centric approach is part of Hörmann’s broader commitment to not only serve current markets but also to anticipate future demands.
In a landscape that is rapidly changing, the need for innovation is crucial. According to Thomsen, Hörmann is diligently working to identify emerging market trends. "In five to ten years, the market will look completely different; we must stay ahead of these developments and discover new customer segments," he stated. One emerging trend is an increased focus on perimeter protection across Europe, where Hörmann’s extensive product line will be critical.
As Hörmann enters a new generation of leadership, the fifth generation of the family is being actively trained to take on management positions. They are learning the intricacies of the business model and aiming to maintain the customer-oriented ethos established by their predecessor. These future leaders are currently working alongside various operations, gaining hands-on experience to ensure they understand the company from the ground up.
Hörmann's dedication to sustainability is another key aspect of its business philosophy. The company actively seeks to reduce and avoid emissions, demonstrating an advanced approach to environmental responsibility. Thomsen declares, "We take our responsibility for the next generation very seriously."
In conclusion, Hörmann is a perfect example of how a family business can thrive through quality products, innovative thinking, and a deep commitment to customer service and sustainability. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a market leader, the legacy of Hörmann continues to grow, firmly rooted in the values of past generations while looking forward to the challenges and opportunities of the future.
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