History

A history from 1870 to today

21st century

2021
2020
2019
2018
2017
2016
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
2009
2008
2007
2006
2005
2004
2003
2002
2001
2000

Completely green

Completely green

Since 2021, DMG MORI has both a CO2-neutral “Company Carbon Footprint” and “Product Carbon Footprint”. Thus, all machines delivered worldwide are produced climate-neutrally – from raw material to delivery.

Live, digital and interactive

Live, digital and interactive

With the first completely digital open house exhibition in Pfronten, DMG MORI presents itself impressively as the future partner no. 1 – and sets new standards in the exchange with customers.

TOP event for TOP values

TOP event for TOP values

At the “Live Strategy Information” and Q&A session of the Executive Board, many employees seize the opportunity for an exchange about orientation, future fields and perspectives of DMG MORI.

Digital end-to-end solutions

Digital end-to-end solutions

With PAYZR, DMG MORI realizes a completely digital subscription business model. As digital point-of-sale for all PAYZR offers in the Equipment- and Software-as-a-Service area, the new “DMG MORI Store powered by ADAMOS” launches.

Together against Corona

Together against corona

The occupational vaccinations at DMG MORI are a big success and an important contribution towards normality. The willingness to vaccinate is very high. Every vaccination counts!

1st Half Year 2021

1st Half Year 2021

The strategic fit of automation, digitization and sustainability is more suitable than ever. In the 1st half of the year, DMG MORI records a highly dynamic business development with significant growth compared to the previous year.

Pre-EMO show

Pre-EMO show

At the Pre-EMO show at DECKEL MAHO Pfronten, DMG MORI shows in total 25 completely climate-neutrally manufactured hightech machines to the over 4,000 visitors – live on site and also digitally.

DMG MORI Partner Summit

DMG MORI Partner Summit

DMG MORI honors five partners for innovative and intensive cooperation with the Partner Award. Over 400 guests attend the exclusive hybrid event.

Hybrid as “New Normal”

Hybrid as “New Normal”

Starting signal for a new trade show concept: At the EMO Milano, DMG MORI presents the manufacturing of the future for the first time at two locations – in the exhibition hall & in the DMG MORI showroom.

Ground Breaking Ceremony

Ground Breaking Ceremony

Ground breaking for DMG MORI Manufacturing Solutions in Pinghu: the production of the state-of-the-art plant is to start in 2023.

Global Development Summit

Global Development Summit

At the “Global Development Summit”, more than 300 international TOP R&D specialists and external experts develop ideas for the future – for even better and networked machines and shop floor solutions.

Financial Year 2021

Financial Year 2021

DMG MORI has emerged strengthened from the crisis and successfully finishes the financial year. The new machines business in particular develops very well. Free cash flow reaches a new record level.

Technologies of the future at the Pfronten Open House

New Vice President of DMG MORI COMPANY LIMITED

Focus on automation, digitization, and Additive Manufacturing, plus 4 world premieres: At the traditional in-house exhibition at DECKEL MAHO Pfronten, DMG MORI presents the latest advances in manufacturing.

With innovative solutions from ISTOS, TULIP and WERKBLiQ, with the "my DMG MORI" customer portal and the Digital Manufacturing Package, we are moving into a digital future.

Health is a priority

New Vice President of DMG MORI COMPANY LIMITED

In March 2020, the WHO declares the COVID-19-breakout to be a pandemic. To protect health, there are temporary partial shutdowns in the European production plants. Despite the corona crisis, DMG MORI shows positive results.

118th Annual General Meeting

New Vice President of DMG MORI COMPANY LIMITED

For the first time in DMG MORI's history, an Annual General Meeting is held virtually. DMG MORI focuses on digitization in the capital market as well.

monoBLOCK Excellence Factory

New Vice President of DMG MORI COMPANY LIMITED

With automated guided vehicles (AGVs), the most modern assembly line in machine tool manufacturing goes into action at DECKEL MAHO Pfronten at the beginning of September 2020. Digitally and fully automated, up to 1,000 customer-specific solutions of the machine tool series can now be manufactured per year in the new 4000m2 monoBLOCK Excellence Factory. The high cost savings of the more efficient production are directly passed on by DMG MORI to its customers.

Green machine production

New Vice President of DMG MORI COMPANY LIMITED

Climate protection and technology leadership are in harmony: Since May 2020 DMG MORI is climate-neutral in its own value added ("Company Carbon Footprint"). Since January 2021, all machines delivered are completely climate-neutral – along the entire value chain. DMG MORI is thus one of the first industrial companies to also have a climate-neutral "Product Carbon Footprint". DMG MORI takes on consistent responsibility.

Technology leader with tradition

Technology leader with tradition

In October, DMG MORI exists for 150 years – DECKEL MAHO Pfronten for 100 years in December.

Special Honor for DMG MORI

Special Honor for DMG MORI

DMG MORI receives this year's innovation award from the German Federal Association of Materials Management, Purchasing and Logistics (BME) for its successful purchasing and logistics management. The award-winning concept impresses with more efficient processes thanks to automated ordering processes, a global matrix organization with regional purchasing units and integrated IT solutions.

Awarded for Training once again

Erneute Auszeichnung für Ausbildung

DMG MORI again impresses this year with its future-oriented training concept, as confirmed by the awards from the business magazines "Capital" and "FOCUS MONEY". DMG MORI is one of the best training companies in Germany and also receives the title "TOP career opportunities".

EMO

EMO

As the largest exhibitor, DMG MORI is presenting a firework of innovations on more than 10,000 sqm at EMO Hanover – especially in the future fields of Automation, Digitization and Additive Manufacturing.

In cooperation with Jungheinrich, the company announces a newly founded development partnership and a first joint product: The PH‑AGV 50, an automated guided vehicle system, enables fully automated loading and unloading of workpiece pallets.

A further sensation was the new alliance between DMG MORI and the US software provider TULIP. With this cooperation, DMG MORI provides simplified access for its customers to get started in digital manufacturing.

With a stake in the company up2parts, which specializes in artificial intelligence, DMG MORI plans to build up important know-how.

Our partners are characterized by their quality, reliability and innovation. Therefore the company honors seven TOP supplier partners with the “DMG MORI Partner Award 2019” at EMO Hanover.

WorldSkills

WorldSkills

Trainee Simon Pankratz from GILDEMEISTER Drehmaschinen GmbH wins a “Medal of Excellence” during the final at WorldSkills in Russia. This makes him one of the ten best in working with CNC turning machines in the world. DMG MORI has been a sponsor of WorldSkills for many years and supports the tournaments amongst others with machines on which the competitions are held.

117th Annual General Meeting

117th Annual General Meeting

At the 117th Annual General Meeting, DMG MORI presents historic record values. The approximately 400 shareholders approve all items on the agenda through a majority vote in the Bielefeld town hall.

New Vice President of DMG MORI COMPANY LIMITED

New Vice President of DMG MORI COMPANY LIMITED

Christian Thönes, Chairman of the Executive Board of DMG MORI AKTIENTGESELLSCHAFT, is now in addition Vice President of DMG MORI COMPANY LIMITED. The appointment as a member of the Board of Directors shows the close integration within the "Global One Company".

DMG MORI classical concert

DMG MORI classical concert

An extraordinary evening: DMG MORI hosts the first German-Japanese classical concert in the Rudolf-Oetker-Halle in Bielefeld. The “Global One Company” reflects musically its cultural diversity with the talent of Miki Kawashima and Kyohei Sorita on the piano and the exceptional accordion player Mario Batkovic.

DMG MORI and INTECH

DMG MORI and INTECH

At "formnext" in Frankfurt, the leading international trade fair for additive manufacturing, DMG MORI announces its participation in the Indian SLM company INTECH. The company specializes in ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING and related software solutions. With this cooperation, DMG MORI further expands its presence in the future fields.

Grand Opening FAMOT – Digital Factory

Grand Opening FAMOT – Digital Factory

DMG MORI opens the digital factory of the future. With modular products from ISTOS, DMG MORI Software Solutions and WERKBLiQ, the entire value chain is digitized in our Polish plant FAMOT – from planning and work preparation through production and monitoring to service. The new digital factory speeds up the work process and increases the efficiency of our production.

Double victory at WorldSkills Germany

WorldSkills

The best CNC lathe operators in Germany come from DMG MORI - Michael Zelmer becomes German champion and Simon Pankratz secures second place. Both winners learn their skills in training at GILDEMEISTER Drehmaschinen.

116th Annual General Meeting

At the 116th Annual General Meeting, the shareholders voted with a clear majority to adopt the resolutions proposed by the Executive Board and Supervisory Board. Subsequently, the Supervisory Board voted Dr. Eng. Masahiko Mori as its chairman.

Germany’s best Training Companies

Germany’s best Training Companies

DMG MORI receives the “Germany’s best Training Company 2018” award from the business magazine “Focus Money”.

“First Quality”- Offensive

“First Quality”- Offensive

With the “First Quality”-campaign and the “Customer First” program, DMG MORI sets new benchmarks. Since January 2018 we have been offering a 36-month warranty period for all motor spindles of the MASTER-series, without any restriction on hours.

DMG MORI and HEITEC

DMG MORI and HEITEC

DMG MORI strengthens its automation expertise in a joint venture with HEITEC. In future, every DMG MORI machine can optionally be fully automated if required. The basis for this is a building kit approach with modular, compatible solutions.

Grand Opening Shanghai

DMG MORI opens the Technology and Solution Center at a Grand Opening in Shanghai, also shifting the focus to Technology Excellence in the key industries of “Aerospace” and „Automotive“.

Germany’s best Training Company

Germany’s best Training Company

DMG MORI receives the “Germany’s best Training Company” award from the business magazine “Capital”. “Focus Money” also honors DMG MORI by ranking it 1st for its commitment in the areas of development opportunities, employee loyalty and sustainability.

ADAMOS

ADAMOS

The open digital platform ADAMOS (ADAptive Manufacturing Open Solutions), which DMG MORI founded with Dürr, Software AG, ZEISS and ASM PT, is now available worldwide with 200 experts. ADAMOS is a major part of DMG MORI’s “Integrated Digitization”. Together with CELOS and ADAMOS, DMG MORI now has an integrated digitization strategy.

DMG MORI at EMO 2017

EMO

EMO, the world’s leading trade fair for manufacturing technologies, is the most successful trade fair of all time for DMG MORI with a record order intake and more than 20,000 visitors. As the largest exhibitor, we showcased the future of manufacturing technologies in a “digital factory” as well as 8 world premieres on an area of 10,000 m2.

Modernization and site expansion FAMOT

Cooperation with REALIZER

With the breaking of ground for the construction of a 7,000 m2 assembly hall at FAMOT in Pleszew (Poland) on 30 May, DMG MORI sets a further milestone in its modernization and site expansion totaling more than 22,000 m2.

115th Annual General Meeting

The 115th Annual General Meeting is held at Bielefeld City Hall on 5 th May 2017. All agenda items are approved with an overwhelming majority.

Automation Expertise

Automation is one of the key development focusses at production sites. The goal is that every DMG MORI machine will be equipped with an automation system in the future. 

Cooperation with REALIZER

Cooperation with REALIZER

DMG MORI strengthens its ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING portfolio with a majority holding of 50.1% in REALIZER GmbH. With the “Selective Laser Melting” (SLM) technology, DMG MORI offers its customers entirely new areas of application. DMG MORI consistently covers the process chain and bundles the most important generative manufacturing processes under one roof. This makes us a full-service provider – both in the additive manufacturing of metal components and in the subsequent machining.

The Year of Innovations

The Year of Innovations

DMG MORI realigns its global sales and services structures. Since January, DMG MORI AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT has been managing the home market, Germany, the EMEA region (Europe, Middle East and Africa) and the Chinese and Indian markets. DMG MORI COMPANY LIMITED is responsible for its home market, Japan, the USA and the remaining regions of Asia and America.

As the “Global One Company“, DMG MORI strengthens its product portfolio with a total of 15 world premieres and presents innovations from the five strategic future topics: Automation, Digitization, ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING and Technology Excellence in the Aerospace, Automotive, Die & Mold and Medical industries as well as DMG MORI Qualified Products (DMQP).

Cooperation with Haimer

Cooperation with Haimer

DMG MORI and Haimer GmbH intensify their collaboration and sign a cooperation agreement. As a new premium partner, Haimer takes over the Microset operations.

Digitization Competence

Digitization Competence

DMG MORI strengthens its digitization expertise with the establishment of the start-up ISTOS. Customers can be better supported in their digital transformation thanks to fully connected production processes. 

Mission: Title defence

Mission: Title defence

DMG MORI and Porsche successfully finish the 2016 season of FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC): victory in Le Mans, winning the manufacturers’ world championship and successfully defending the drivers’ title.

DMG MORI & Industry 4.0

DMG MORI & Industry 4.0

DMG MORI is shaping the future for Industry 4.0 with innovative software solutions: With the app-based control and operating software CELOS and 26 apps for networked intelligent production DMG MORI machine tools are prepared for the digital transformation. 

Russian Manufacturer

Russian Manufacturer

As the first international machine tool manufacturer, DMG MORI officially holds the status of “Russian manufacturer”. This allows easier access to the Russian market. The customer benefits e.g. from a fixed Ruble price and shorter delivery periods.

Together successful

Together successful

The domination and profit transfer agreement becomes effective on 24 th August 2016 with its entry in the commercial register. This milestone provides a legal framework and basis for an even closer working relationship.

The Annual General Meeting in Bielefeld

The Annual General Meeting in Bielefeld

The 114th Annual General Meeting approves the domination and profit transfer agreement. The further merger with our Japanese partner to form a „Global One Company" enables DMG MORI to consolidate its competitive position.

Grand Opening at SAUER

Grand Opening at SAUER

With a Grand Opening, the SAUER GmbH inaugurates the modernized production and logistic capacities of the ULTRASONIC-technology location in Idar-Oberstein.

Development at the Headquarter Bielefeld

Development at the Headquarter Bielefeld

The technology and solution center is expanded to 3,400 m² and presents integrated technology solutions as well as the newest development trends in digitization. 

Grand Opening Moscow

Grand Opening Moscow

DMG MORI increases its presence in Russia and opens in Moscow the new technology and solution center with 20 high-tech machines. 

Chairman of the Executive Board Christian Thönes

Chairman of the Executive Board Christian Thönes

DMG MORI COMPANY LIMITED has increased its direct and indirect shareholding to 76.03% and intends to conclude a domination and profit transfer agreement. After 20 successful years as chairman of the Executive Board, Dr. Rüdiger Kapitza leaves the company by mutual agreement with the Supervisory Board of DMG MORI AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT. In mid-April Christian Thönes is appointed as chairman of the Executive Board.

Industry highlight at the beginning of the year

Industry highlight at the beginning of the year

DMG MORI starts into the new year with the traditional in-house exhibition in Pfronten. More than 9.000 international trade visitors contribute to the record visitor number.

Grand Opening in Ulyanovsk

Grand Opening in Ulyanovsk

DMG MORI has opened one of the world’s most advanced state-of-the-art production and assembly plants at a grand opening. ‘Made in Russia for Russia’ - DMG MORI’s goal for producing turning and milling machines from its ECOLINE series with cutting-edge technology.

The legendary 24-hours race of Le Mans

The legendary 24-hours race of Le Mans
Nico Hülkenberg (on the right) with his co-drivers

The Porsche 919 hybrid takes first place at the legendary Le Mans 24 Hours in France after a 17-year hiatus, thanks to high-precision components from DMG MORI and innovative hybrid technology. Porsche claims both the Manufacturers’ and Drivers’ World Championship titles in the WEC series 2015.

Recognize opportunities, create the future

Recognize opportunities, create the future

On 21st January 2015, the DMG MORI SEIKI AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT enters into a Cooperation Agreement 2015 with DMG MORI SEIKI CO., LTD. The agreement contains goals for further strategic development and sets the framework for DMG MORI CO. LTD.'s tender offer. After successful completion of the transaction on 30 April 2015, DMG MORI CO. LTD. holds 52.54 % of the shares.


On 8 June 2015, DMG MORI SEIKI AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT will become DMG MORI AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT. DMG MORI SEIKI COMPANY LIMITED changes its name to DMG MORI COMPANY LIMITED as a further confirmation of the merger.

The Porsche 919 hybrid

The Porsche 919 hybrid

DMG MORI is to become a select technology partner for Porsche in the motor sport industry.

Grand Opening Global Headquarters Winterthur

Grand Opening Global Headquarters Winterthur

The global DMG MORI sales and service network will soon be coordinated from the Headquarters in Winterthur and Tokyo. With the grand opening in Winterthur, DMG MORI will open a new, innovative technology centre in Switzerland.

Grand Opening Global Headquarters Tokyo

Grand Opening Global Headquarters Tokyo

DMG MORI is opening its new Global Headquarters in Tokyo. The grand opening will be another milestone on the companies‘ path to expanding their global presence and sustainably improving their proximity to customers.

Grand Opening in Pfronten

Grand Opening in Pfronten

A new era in the production of large machines: DECKEL MAHO Pfronten is expanding its capacities with a cutting-edge 1,000 m² assembly hall for XXL machines.

Grand Opening in Bergamo

Grand Opening in Bergamo

With the grand opening in Bergamo DMG MORI is raising the bar in the production of turning machines. GILDEMEISTER Italiana is making its facilities state of the art.

One partnership, One brand

One partnership, One brand

On October 1st , 2013 GILDEMEISTER Aktiengesellschaft becomes DMG MORI SEIKI AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT. Mori Seiki will change its name to DMG MORI SEIKI COMPANY LIMITED.

One Brand for the World

One Brand for the World

On the global market, both companies will work under the brand DMG MORI.

EMO in Hannover

EMO in Hannover

DMG MORI SEIKI presents the first time the unique software development CELOS and the new unified global corporate design of the machine as well as 18 world premieres.

Joint-Commitee of DMG MORI

Joint-Commitee of DMG MORI

GILDEMEISTER and Mori Seiki sign a cooperation agreement and combine their company names in a move to strengthen their successful global cooperation. The shareholders of each company approved the proposal by a large majority.

Energy Solutions Park in Bielefeld

Energy-efficient solutions from GILDEMEISTER energy solutions.
Energy-efficient solutions from GILDEMEISTER energy solutions.

At the Bielefeld location, work was begun on building the Energy Solutions Park in 2012: with the help of solar and wind energy, the company will in future produce 15% of its energy consumption via the Energy Solutions Park - 100% CO² neutral. The opening takes place on 26 of September. 

Grand Opening in Singapore.

DMG / MORI SEIKI Technology Center in Singapore.
DMG / MORI SEIKI Technology Center in Singapore.

The grand opening of the new technology centre in Singapore is celebrated. GILDEMEISTER inaugurates its Southeast Asian headquarters together with its Japanese partner Mori Seiki.

DMG process chain

DMG process chain

The process chain of DMG Virtual Machine integrates geometry, kinematics and the dynamics of actual DMG machines (1:1).

DMG / MORI SEIKI at the EMO 2011

DMG / MORI SEIKI at the EMO 2011

Cooperation strengthens innovation
GILDEMEISTER and Mori Seiki appeared at the EMO in Hanover together for the first time. Over 7,600 m², the two companies presented 97 exhibits, of which 25 were world premieres.

GILDEMEISTER celebrates 140 years

GILDEMEISTER AG head office in Bielefeld
GILDEMEISTER AG head office in Bielefeld

GILDEMEISTER celebrated its 140th anniversary on 1 October 2010. 

Energy Solutions

The large battery "CellCube"
The large battery "CellCube"

Entry into the forward-looking market of energy storage technology with the large battery "CellCube".

DMG MORI SEIKI

DMG MORI SEIKI

In March 2009, GILDEMEISTER signed a cooperation agreement with Japanese machine tool manufacturer Mori Seiki Co. LTD. (Nagoya). The partnership includes production, research and development, acquisition, sales and service as well as global provision of customer financing. GILDEMEISTER and Mori Seiki appeared with a common logo in seven partnership markets : Taiwan, Thailand, Indonesia, Turkey, Japan, Korea, and Australia. Dr Masahiko Mori became a new member of the Supervisory Board of GILDEMEISTER Aktiengesellschaft. Dr Rüdiger Kapitza became "Senior Executive Operating Director" on the board of Mori Seiki.

Award-winning machine design

Award-winning machine design

In 2007, GILDEMEISTER presented a trend-setting new machine design; thanks to the high transparency of the working space and the processed materials as well as the form and colour scheme, it has had a unique place in the industry.


DMG ECOLINE series

DMG ECOLINE series

In 2008, GILDEMEISTER introduced the DMG ECOLINE series. Efficiency, innovative technology and an unbeatable price are factors which characterise the series.


Solar Park at Büren

Solar Park at Büren

GILDEMEISTER has successfully established itself in the future-orientated field of solar technology. In July 2007, GILDEMEISTER subsidiary a&f Stahl- und Maschinenbau GmbH presented its SunCarrier at the Intersolar trade fair in Freiburg for the first time. a+f received two large commissions of over 150 SunCarriers each. 2007 was the most successful year in the company's history to date. On 12 December, GILDEMEISTER began to be listed on the MDAX.


Best annual report 2006

Best annual report 2006

For the eighth time in a row, GILDEMEISTER earned top marks on its annual report in the yearly ranking of "manager magazin". With its 2006 motto " Grasping the future. Setting trends ", GILDEMEISTER won the panel over with its meaningful content, high level of language use and attractive design.

Extension of the Executive Board

Extension of the Executive Board
The new Executive Board (l. to. r.) Dr Thorsten Schmidt, Michael Welt, Günter Bachmann, Dr Rüdiger Kapitza

In order to stay on top of increased globalisation and its extensive product and market orientation, Dr Thorsten Schmidt from the supervisory board was appointed to the Executive Board as a regular member. His tasks include sales and service. Dipl.-Ing. Günter Bachmann was also named to the Executive Board as a regular member. He began his tenure on 1 October 2006 and has been responsible for production and technology.


Grand opening of DMG Europe Holding GmbH 

Grand opening of DMG Europe Holding GmbH 

GILDEMEISTER inaugurated DMG Europe Holding GmbH in the heart of Europe, with head office in Klaus, Vorarlberg/Austria, on 19 October 2005. The sales and service activities of all European DMG companies are directed from here.


DMG at the EMO

DMG at the EMO

At the EMO 2005 in Hanover, the world's most important trade fair for machine tools, GILDEMEISTER presented 65 high-tech machines, 9 of which were world premieres, and achieved the highest amount of trade fair orders to date.


GILDEMEISTER receives the innovation award

GILDEMEISTER receives the innovation award

In 2004, GILDEMEISTER was awarded the BME innovation prize (The German national association for material management, buying and logistics). The prize was awarded for its modern acquisition concept, which sustainably increased the efficiency of buying and logistics.

DMG at the METAV

DMG at the METAV

At the METAV in Düsseldorf, leadership in innovation was again demonstrated. As one of the largest exhibitors, GILDEMEISTER presented 22 technology machines - six of which are world premieres.


Grand Opening Shanghai

Grand Opening Shanghai
The production facility in Shanghai: China creates an optimal location for delivering to the Asian market

On 15 January 2003, GILDEMEISTER had a grand opening of its first production location outside of Europe. In Shanghai, innovative lathes and milling machines are to be built for the Chinese market. In order to secure new markets and as a further milestone in its globalisation strategy, GILDEMEISTER acquired a production plant in the southwest of Shanghai. The new location has a total area of 15,000 m² and includes 10,000 m² of commercial space.


In-house exhibition DECKEL MAHO Pfronten

In-house exhibition DECKEL MAHO Pfronten
The first of 22 new developments in 2002: the vertical machining centre DMC 64 linear

The traditional highlight at the beginning of the year: the DECKEL MAHO in-house exhibition in Pfronten began in February and ended with its usual positive balance. Every year, visitors learn about the newest developments at GILDEMEISTER. The numerous trade visitors have direct access to the machines in the DMG Showrooms.

Majority share in SAUER

Majority share in SAUER
The DMS 35 ultrasonic can take on complex machining of glass and ceramics

In 2001, a majority stake was acquired in SAUER GmbH & Co. In this way, GILDEMEISTER successfully broke into the field of ultrasound technology, which not only performs tasks better, but also faster and less expensively than conventional methods. Ultrasound technology enables the machining of "advanced materials" like ceramics, glass, silicon and hard metals.

Buy back of the former subsidiary GILDEMEISTER Italiana

Buy back of the former subsidiary GILDEMEISTER Italiana

GILDEMEISTER Italiana is back - since mid-May 2000, GILDEMEISTER Italiana (GITAL, Graziano and SACO) again became part of the GILDEMEISTER group. The knowledge, the resources and the technology of the companies complement each other ideally. The lathe business area was significantly strengthened as a result of the takeover.

New design in white and chrome

New design in white and chrome
The NEF 520 and the CTX 400 series 2 in a new look

GILDEMEISTER machines got a brand new design just in time for the autumn trade fairs. The noble appearance in white and chrome reflects the great care taken in production and lives up to the modern customer's demands.

20th century

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FAMOT Pleszew S.A. in Poland and the new production facility of DECKEL MAHO Geretsried ​​​​​​​

FAMOT Pleszew S.A. in Poland and the new production facility of DECKEL MAHO Geretsried

This year was characterised by a continuation of strong growth. Market entry of a new field, laser technology, took place with the takeover of LCTec GmbH in Pfronten. By mid-year, GILDEMEISTER acquired a majority stake in Poland's largest manufacturer of cutting machine tools, FAMOT Pleszew S.A. On 17 September, 1999, DECKEL MAHO Geretsried marked a new era with its new technology centre for vertical and horizontal machining centres.

DECKEL MAHO Geretsried

DECKEL MAHO Geretsried

Starting December 1, 1999, GILDEMEISTER shares were listed on SDAX.

122 new trainees

122 new trainees
Premier Wolfgang Clement with Dr Rüdiger Kapitza

A total of 122 apprentices were employed at GILDEMEISTER in 1998. The apprenticeship of young technicians is a high priority for GILDEMEISTER. North Rhine-Westphalia premier Wolfgang Clement was also convinced when he toured the training facilities.


GILDEMEISTER with a record order intake

In 1998, GILDEMEISTER reached the mark of one billion Deutschmarks in sales for the first time in its corporate history and increased all of its key figures significantly. As the leading lathe and milling machine manufacturer in Europe, GILDEMEISTER has had a solid base on which to build up its international market presence in a targeted way.

DMG Netservice at the AMB

DMG Netservice at the AMB

The new DMG Netservice was introduced in 1997. Machines can be monitored and optimised within minutes with this, the machine tool industry's first interactive service network worldwide.

GILDEMEISTER in the World Wide Web

GILDEMEISTER in the World Wide Web

Since June 1997, GILDEMEISTER has had a modern and futuristic internet presence. At www.gildemeister-ag.com, information is available regarding technical services, machines and trade fair dates.

Chairman of the Executive Board Dr Rüdiger Kapitza

Chairman of the Executive Board Dr Rüdiger Kapitza

In 1996, Dr Rüdiger Kapitza became Chairman of the Executive Board of the group. He was one of the founders of today's DMG Vertriebs und Service GmbH and has been a member of the executive committee since 1992, being responsible for sales, marketing and strategic planning.
As a re-structuring measure, GILDEMEISTER sold the majority stake of its Italian lathe manufacturer in June 1996.

GILDEMEISTER takes over DECKEL MAHO

GILDEMEISTER takes over DECKEL MAHO
Vertical milling machine (DMU 50 V), 2 axle CNC lathe (CT 200), multi-spindle lathing centre (GM 67 CNC), vertical machine centre (DMC 63 V) (1996)

In 1994, GILDEMEISTER takes over the assets required for operations from the bankruptcy of DECKEL MAHO AG and a highly respected know-how in the industry for universal milling and drilling machines as well as machining centers. As of 1 August, the new DECKEL MAHO GmbH, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Group, will start its business operations with three production sites in Pfronten, Geretsried and Seebach. The number of employees will increase to 2,700. The year of consolidation follows; GILDEMEISTER creates the turnaround.

Cooperation with DECKEL MAHO

Cooperation with DECKEL MAHO
Everything under one roof: The flagship in Bielefeld, the Italiana S.p.A. and DMG Vertriebs GmbH now also included DECKEL MAHO with production facilities in Geretsried, Seebach and Pfronten (from top)

The nineties were characterised by fundamental global political changes - reunification, the Gulf War and the dissolution of the Soviet Bloc.
The entire industry experienced an unforeseen economic slide. The domestic recession affected all important customers and was characterised by general insecurity regarding future development. There were hardly any manufacturers in Europe or the Far East who were not affected by the fall off in demand. GILDEMEISTER was not immune to this and slipped into economic crisis.

The Eltro Pilot 

The Eltro Pilot 

In the eighties, GILDEMEISTER expanded further and international activities were stepped up as a result. International sales strategies were necessary, not least due to growing competition from the Japanese. Growing demand for training and intelligent services led to the founding of the GILDEMEISTER Training Academy in Hanover in 1987.

The manual numerically controlled machine N.E.F.

The manual numerically controlled machine N.E.F.

On 30 August 1973, the General Meeting resolved to rename the company, known until then as Werkzeugmaschinenfabrik Gildemeister & Comp., GILDEMEISTER Aktiengesellschaft.

In 1975, the computer age began at the company. At the international machine tool trade fair EMO in Paris, the company presented the first electronic controls as well as the most successful development to date: the manual-numerically controlled lathe N.E.F.

The GILDEMEISTER Journal in a design from the seventies

The GILDEMEISTER Journal in a design from the seventies

In 1969, the company took over Italian lathe manufacturer GILDEMEISTER Italiana. The smaller multi-spindle machines were then manufactured in Brembate di Sopra.

In the same year, WestLB investment bank acquired shares of the company. GILDEMEISTER became a public company with a broad spectrum of shareholders.

In 1970, GILDEMEISTER acquired a controlling stake in the Hamburg machine tool manufacturer Heidenreich & Harbeck and thus the necessary know how for CNC-controlled lathes.

In 1972, the Max Müller Brinker machine plant in Hanover was acquired.

The new production hall in Sennestadt

Neue Produktionshallen in Sennestadt
The plant property near the Bielefeld central station from 1870 to 1977 Production start of GILDEMEISTER GmbH, Gildemeister-DeVlieg and Berg & Co. in Sennestadt (1965)

A steady expansion and improvement of the broad spectrum of production meant the beginning of planning for a generous modern new plant facility. In 1964, GILDEMEISTER began building new production facilities for its main plant and for its various affiliated companies in Sennestadt. The 300,000 m² industrial space just outside the city offered ideal conditions for the company's further development.

GILDEMEISTER at the Hanover industrial trade fair

GILDEMEISTER at the Hanover industrial trade fair
The new RV 50 turret lathe is introduced at the Hanover industrial trade fair (1950)

The economic miracle of these years meant booming business for GILDEMEISTER as well. New trends in machines were started in Bielefeld and then resonated throughout the entire world. GILDEMEISTER became the market leader in Europe. Machine customers included above all the electronics industry, the automotive and bicycle industries as well as the machine manufacturing industry and the fixtures industry. In 1950, the new turret lathe RV 50 was introduced at the Hanover industrial trade fair; in 1955, the first new 8 spindle automatic chucking machine left the plant.


Karl Bernhard Grauthoff

Karl Bernhard Grauthoff

Under the direction of Karl Bernhard Grauthoff, reconstruction work on the plant began. At this point in time, GILDEMEISTER had 25 employees and owned 4000 marks in liquid assets after the currency reform and began production of new machine tools for the national and international market.


GILDEMEISTER during the second World War

GILDEMEISTER during the second World War
The destroyed production halls in 1944

On 30 September 1944 all production facilities were fully destroyed in a bombing raid. Only the administrative building and the model joinery were intact, except for minor damage.

After the end of war, the company was temporarily placed on the removal list.

The GILDEMEISTER Logo
The GILDEMEISTER Logo

GILDEMEISTER survives economic crisis

GILDEMEISTER survives economic crisis
Workers at the turning facility in 1939

In the thirties, GILDEMEISTER was able to stay above water thanks to large manufacturing orders from Russia. This was the reason GILDEMEISTER survived the global economic crisis without any financial setbacks.
At the beginning of the Second World War, GILDEMEISTER had 600 employees.

The originally patented planrevolver type NC (1933) and the multi-spindle automatic lathe

The originally patented planrevolver type NC (1933) and the multi-spindle automatic lathe

1928 was a decisive year for GILDEMEISTER:

Wilhelm Berg was granted Patent No. 544 604 for the development of a machine with free swarf fall and for the manufacture of automatic machines in portal format. For the company, this was the beginning of a sustained increase in business combined with a remarkable jump in innovation. 

The new supplier Berg & Co. GmbH

The new supplier Berg & Co. GmbH
Machine tools made by GILDEMEISTER Aktiengesellschaft and Berg & Co. GmbH (1920)

After the end of World War I, the victorious powers initially forbid production at GILDEMEISTER, but this was soon lifted.

Berg & Co. GmbH, founded in 1918, became a supplier of chucks and engines. GILDEMEISTER produced plane type milling machines for trains, motor-driven turret lathes and later automatic lathes.

GILDEMEISTER with new portfolio

GILDEMEISTER with new portfolio
GILDEMEISTER exhibition stand at the machine tool trade fair in Malmö, Sweden (1914)

New work methods and materials required re-structuring and changed organisational forms.

In 1915, systematic rationalisation took place. From the large number of existing constructions of custom machines, only four types of machines were subsequently produced:
drum turret turning machines, multi-spindle lathes, plane type milling machines as well as vertical and horizontal milling machines.

GILDEMEISTER becomes a worldwide leading manufacturer

GILDEMEISTER becomes a worldwide leading manufacturer
Production plants in 1910

Under Wilhelm Berg, GILDEMEISTER developed into one of the most important machine tool manufacturers worldwide. The young engineer expanded his knowledge in the USA and became familiar in serial production methods. This type of production was also introduced at the Bielefeld plants.

Wilhelm Berg succeeds Friedrich Gildemeister

Wilhelm Berg succeeds Friedrich Gildemeister
Wilhelm Berg (1873-1955) Official farewell letter 1906

After over 30 years, Friedrich Gildemeister stepped down from the leadership of his company and retired.

On 1 April 1906, engineer Wilhelm Berg took over management of the company.

19th century

1899
1895
1890
1870

Advertisement for GILDEMEISTER Aktiengesellschaft shares

Advertisement for GILDEMEISTER Aktiengesellschaft shares

The machine manufacturing industry flourished. On 1 October 1899, the corporate form was changed to a public limited company via Bankhaus Hermann Paderstein.

GILDEMEISTER Aktiengesellschaft had capital assets of 1 million Goldmarks.

GILDEMEISTER at the turn of the century

GILDEMEISTER at the turn of the century
Double-spindled drill and lathe (1895), milling machine (1902), and turret lathe (1902

Until the turn of the century, work was done manually at GILDEMEISTER.

Friedrich Gildemeister drafted the machines commissioned from him on the floor of the plant with chalk. All tools were still forged and hardened by the employees themselves.

GILDEMEISTER grows

Corporate premises near the former Cologne-Minden train station in Bielefeld in 1890
Corporate premises near the former Cologne-Minden train station in Bielefeld in 1890

In the following decades, the plant near the Cologne-Minden train station was expanded to include several larger and smaller production facilities.

In 1890, the company had around 100 employees, among them a wages clerk and three technicians to assemble the machines.

Articles of Association in 1870

Articles of Association in 1870

On 1 October 1870, locksmith Friedrich Gildemeister founded the "Werkzeugmaschinenfabrik (Machine Tool Plant) Gildemeister & Comp".

W. Johannsmann and W. Schumacher were listed as partners in the Articles of Association.