A century of craftsmanship and innovation at the most traditional production location in Austria.
Gmunden (OTS) – March 18, 2024. LAUFEN Austria AG is celebrating a special anniversary this year: Exactly 100 years ago, the industrial production of sanitary ceramics began in Gmunden, based on the region’s centuries-long tradition and expertise. From these beginnings, LAUFEN has developed into a global player with unique know-how, responsible for groundbreaking innovations in the sanitary ceramics industry.
Research and development have a long tradition at the Gmunden location.”Groundbreaking innovations such as the first free-standing washbasin cast in one piece in 2002, the patented sapphire ceramic in 2013, and the world’s first globally usable urine-separating toilet “save!” in 2019 were developed here. and in 2023 the world’s first CO2-neutral tunnel kiln for sanitary ceramics was developed. These inventions not only revolutionized the industry, but also contributed to environmental protection.
“, explains Christian Schäfer, CEO of LAUFEN Austria AG.
REVIEW – OUTLOOK
Milestones and pioneering work
Since starting production in 1924, LAUFEN has developed from a local producer to a global player. Under the leadership of Conrad H. Lester, energetic efforts were made as early as the 1960s, which led to the creation of a strong brand and brought the company cross-border recognition for its products of exceptional quality and durability. The merger with the Swiss Ceramics Holding AG LAUFEN in 1967 marked another milestone in the company’s history and paved the way for international growth.
Innovation drivers and pioneers in the industry
In the decades that followed, LAUFEN continually set new standards in the sanitary industry. The introduction of the revolutionary die casting process in 1980 increased productivity and significantly expanded the product range. In 1999, LAUFEN became part of the Roca Group and became a global leader in bathroom furnishings and sanitary ceramics.
Excellence in sanitary ware
Another highlight of this success story was reached in 2013 when LAUFEN presented the groundbreaking sapphire ceramics in Gmunden. This particularly hard material made thin-walled shapes with narrow edges possible for the first time, setting a completely new standard for ceramic design.
“save!”, the first globally usable urine-separating toilet, was also developed by LAUFEN in Gmunden together with the Viennese design team from EOOS. Save! prevents the nitrate contained in human urine from ending up in wastewater and causing global environmental damage and instead enables it to be processed as valuable plant fertilizer.
„With a clear view of the future, LAUFEN remains committed to further exploring the limits of innovation and setting the standards for high-quality sanitary products worldwide.
“, emphasizes Christian Schäfer, CEO of LAUFEN Austria AG.
Innovation center for the entire LAUFEN Group in Gmunden with the world’s first CO2-free tunnel kiln for sanitary ceramics
Today, the production site in Gmunden is considered the innovation center of the entire group, from which the world’s first CO2-neutral tunnel kiln for sanitary ceramics emerged. After a four-year development phase, the electric kiln was able to successfully take over the main firing of the ceramics produced at the site at the beginning of 2024. By using energy from 100 percent renewable sources, LAUFEN sets a clear example for decarbonization, energy efficiency and water saving.
„This groundbreaking innovation once again underlines LAUFEN’s great commitment to sustainability, climate-neutral production and the careful use of natural resources.
Christian Schäfer, CEO of LAUFEN Austria AG, is convinced.
Run over
LAUFEN Austria AG is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of bathroom ceramics and is the only company that produces sanitary ceramics in Austria. The core competence in the production of ceramics has developed into the know-how for the complete bathroom, which LAUFEN designs at a high design level. In collaboration with internationally renowned design studios, unique creations are created for the global market.
LAUFEN Austria AG, based in Wilhelmsburg (Lower Austria), production in Gmunden (Upper Austria) and the LAUFEN space in Vienna (1st district), is part of the Swiss LAUFEN Group, which specializes in complete solutions for bathrooms in the premium segment . The company, founded in 1892, has its headquarters in Laufen near Basel. The LAUFEN Group employs around 2,500 people in five Central European production sites (Switzerland, Austria, Czech Republic and Poland) and maintains sales offices in 44 countries worldwide.
Further information under: www.laufen.co.at
Questions & Contact:
Media contact:
DS agency for communication strategy, brand building & visibility
Doris Spiegl
M: +43 676 540 15 94, E: ds@dorisspiegl.at
LAUFEN AUSTRIA AG
Mariazeller Strasse 100, A-3150 Wilhelmsburg
Head of Marketing & Communications
Melanie Berger
M: +43 664 134 10 61; E: melanie.berger@at.laufen.com