100 years of history and beyond
Becker-Antriebe - the German specialist in the automation of roller shutters, awnings and other shading solutions - celebrates its 100th anniversary this year. Where did the company come from, how did it turn 100 years old and what has the company experienced during this time? On the occasion of the anniversary, let's pause for a moment, take a look back and then look forward with renewed vigour.
"As a pre-school boy, I was allowed to walk with my grandfather through the machines. I asked questions and watched the production process. I owe my love for the company and the dedication he represented to my grandfather Emil."
recalls Hans Joachim Wiegelmann, grandson of company founder Emil Becker.
The beginnings
Becker started out as a mechanical workshop founded by Emil Becker in 1921. A few years after founding the company, Adolf Becker joined his brother Emil with his knowledge of electronics. The company grew steadily until Becker began mass production in the 1950s. These were steering knuckles for the gearbox of the three-wheeled TEMPO truck and axles for the washing machines of AEG and CANDY Lavamat in Italy. In 1965 it was decided to start developing and manufacturing industrial drives and their associated controls.
The next development was the tube drive, which was introduced in 1971 as an alternative to mechanical winding systems. The introduction of the tube drive was certainly one of the most important milestones in the company's history.
"The company owes its pipe engines to my father, Dr Hans Wiegelmann. A large panoramic window was installed in our living room, which led to my mother Hilde's desire for an electric shutter. However, my father found the products on the market too expensive and thought he could produce a cheaper and, above all, better one. This was the first spark to develop the first tube motors "
explains Hans Joachim.
Now and in the future
According to Hans Joachim Wiegelmann, the secret of success lies in values such as trust and respect, the desire to innovate and the courage to explore new paths - Becker wants to remain a family company that continues to produce with the "Made in Germany" quality label. Two of the three sons, Maik and Julian Wiegelmann, work for the company.
The motto of the "next generation": reflecting on established values and having the courage to innovate. As far as corporate governance is concerned, Jürgen Timm Becker, Managing Director, sees it in a very good position:
"With my two authorised signatories Frank Haubach (Sales/Marketing) and André Wißing (Technical Management), and Maik Wiegelmann (shareholder and Head of Becker Academy), we are forming a management team that brings together experience and expertise from different disciplines. I am more of a 'numbers person' by nature and focus on finance, human resources, procurement and IT."
But Becker is not only in a good position for the future in organisational terms. With new product developments, such as the CentronicPlus radio system or the new CentralControl CC41 central controller for roller shutters and other blinds, Becker is taking another step towards future-proof products for smart home automation.
Together, more simply. - BECKER
