Winkelbauer
Our way
Since 1945, Winkelbauer has stood for innovative spirit, family cohesion and precision craftsmanship. From a small blacksmith’s shop, we have developed into a specialist in the processing of highly wear-resistant and high-strength steels – rooted in Anger, driven by progress. A lot has changed in the last 80 years, but our values have remained the same.
Our origin
The foundation stone for today’s company was laid in 1945. Hubert Winkelbauer registered the trade of farrier and wagon smith. Innovation and entrepreneurial spirit were in demand at this time, particularly due to the shortage of raw materials. So he bought scrapped tanks, which he used to make cooker plates, cable winches and other products in his leased forge. In 1957, the first workshop was built at the current company site in Anger – horses and oxen were replaced by tractors and farriery was replaced by vehicle construction. As a result, the first Winkelbauer trailers are sold under the protected brand name “HUWI” (Hubert Winkelbauer).
Our Development
After Hubert’s sudden death in 1966, his son Franz took over the company at the age of 22. The plan was actually to make a new start in Canada, but Franz decided in favour of the company – a turning point. He expanded the company with a spirit of innovation: Introduction of flame-cutting technology, series production of tippers, Excavator buckets. The first major orders came in 1972. After successfully completing his HTL training, his son Michael joined the company in the 1980s with many innovations. For example, the entry into CAD. The first robot system followed. Over the next few decades, we established ourselves as the leading supplier of Construction machinery equipment in the Alpine region. With the pink quick couplings, we set a strong and visible trademark on construction sites from 1996. With expertise, improvisation and courage, we developed from a regional company into a competent partner when it comes to processing highly wear-resistant and safety-critical steels. These high-quality components are manufactured for recycling plants, vehicle construction and infrastructure protection, for example.
Sustainable solutions since 1945. Hardest steel.
Sustainable solutions since 1945. Hardest steel.
Family business
Generations
As a family business, we think in terms of generations. What has always united us is our shared aspiration to take responsibility – for each other, for our employees and for our customers. Personal commitment, handshake quality and the will to constantly develop ourselves further. Franz built the foundations on which the company stands today. He focussed on robotics and apprentice training at an early stage. Michael has been shaping the course of the family business since the 1980s with his innovative strength and sustainable growth. Stephan, the fourth generation in the company, is driving the company forward with a clear focus on digitalisation and new business areas.
Pictures of history
An extract from the highlights and significant milestones in the company’s history.
