Wemhöner carves niche in Asia’s market for wooden panels with first-rate technologies
- Wemhöner is committed to providing German-engineered solutions for wood-based panel surfaces
From plywood and particle boards to fibre building boards, wood-based panels are popular materials in furniture building and construction – creating a massive global market expected to reach US$175 billion by 2025.
With the demand for woodworking machines forecast to grow in Asia, which exports most of its wood panels globally, Wemhöner Surface Technologies is solidifying its commitment in providing German-engineered solutions for wood-based panel surfaces to the region. Backed by a future-forward focus on digital technologies, the company is slated to open a second factory in Changzhou, China by 2020.
Wemhöner built its legacy of expertise over nine decades. Founded as a small workshop in 1925 by Heinrich Wemhöner, the independent family-owned business honed a number of innovations over time – such as the world’s fastest short-cycle press system and the first multi-pass digital printing line.
“Our key to success is really listening to our customers and creating solutions for their needs,” says Heiner Wemhöner, the company’s CEO and managing partner, and third-generation scion. “Beyond being a machinery manufacturer, we supply tailor-made equipment that gives us a market advantage and significantly differentiates us from other companies.”
The world-leading provider of short-cycle press lines for two consecutive years, Wemhöner exports 85 per cent of its products to more than 80 countries around the globe. Its short-cycle press lines for melamine direct lamination have played a critical role in the global furniture and laminate flooring industry for more than 40 years. Using a synchronous pore technology, the line has set technological standards for single and double-sided applications.
Our key to success is really listening to our customers and creating solutions for their needs
The company’s premium cost-effective surface finishing technologies are span lacquering, direct printing, through-feed press lines, lightweight panel systems and special press lines such as embossing presses, cold presses and mould presses.
Driven to continuously surpass boundaries, Wemhöner is a key technology leader. Talent plays a crucial role at the Wemhöner Technology Centre for Research and Development, where engineers closely collaborate with customers, leading universities and top-class suppliers.
Wemhöner’s hi-tech solutions include automated 3D press lines and turnkey solutions for total plant construction. The company is also focused on digital printing for its higher production, efficiency and small-scale applications.
With a global distribution network for consulting, sales and after-sales services covering installation, inspection, maintenance, repairs, training and spare parts provision, Wemhöner is prepared to serve Asia’s emerging markets.
“As a German Mittelstand, our independence is also our strength,” Heiner Wemhöner says. “I see strong growth for us because our reputation is growing. We value partnerships and not just business relationships with our clients.”