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From a two-man operation to a global player: MiniTec GmbH is celebrating its 40th anniversary this month.
What began in 1986 as a small distribution company for miniature guides has developed into a global specialist for profile systems, linear technology, conveyor technology, workplace systems, and factory automation. With around 420 employees at ten locations worldwide and 60 international partners, the name MiniTec today stands for intelligent solutions and consistent adherence to a simple principle.
The courage to start afresh
The history of MiniTec began on March 7, 1986, in Bensheim in southern Hesse. Bernhard Bauer founded the company with a partner with the aim of importing high-precision linear guides from Japan. However, the big breakthrough did not come at first. After the partners parted ways amicably, Bernhard Bauer ventured a new start in Waldmohr (Western Palatinate). Success came with the addition of ball bushings and miniature ball bearings to the product range; soon, the first million in sales was achieved.
Innovation through simplification
The decisive turning point came in 1989. MiniTec engineers realized that existing profile systems on the market were complicated and expensive to assemble. They developed their own system that used standard DIN screws and did not require any complex machining. “The Art of Simplicity” became their motto. The first brochures were created with scissors and glue on the kitchen table.
The patented power lock fastener, which requires no drilling or milling, revolutionized the portfolio and became the star of the Fameta trade fair in 1991. This was the starting signal for rapid expansion: MiniTec's own CNC production facilities followed, along with the innovative CADmenu design software (now iCAD Assembler) and, from 1998, the move into complete factory automation.
Global presence, local roots
Despite its worldwide success with branches in the USA, Great Britain, France, and Spain, among other countries, the company remained loyal to its home region. In 2009, MiniTec moved into a modern, energy-efficient headquarters in Schönenberg-Kübelberg. Even after the founder handed over the reins to the new management in 2015, the spirit of the family business remains intact.
Today, MiniTec supplies everything from a single source – from precision steel shafts to turnkey automation solutions.
“Our growth is based on smart products and close customer relationships,” said the management team on the anniversary. “40 years of MiniTec are proof that down-to-earthness and innovative strength complement each other perfectly.”
Tobias Doll, Sandra Geyer-Altenkirch, Andreas Böhnlein (from left to right)
Learn more about the anniversary in our Connect:
