Sales at the fan and motor manufacturer Ziehl-Abegg grew in 2016 to $671 million, up from $622 million the previous year.
Ziehl-Abegg CEO, Peter Frankl, said despite the difficult economic climate globally, growth was facilitated by new products, improved logistics and a greater commitment to sales and customer support.
“The pure sales figures are up by about eight per cent, driven by a closer working relationship with suppliers and customers,” he said. "We are providing more local support for our customers all over the world.”
Exports account for more than 75 per cent of sales with the biggest increases coming from other European countries.
"Asia has performed well but is no longer showing the same dynamic growth of previous years," he said.
There has been huge demand for the radial fan Cpro and the compact fan unit Zaplus.
One trend that intensified in 2016 is customer interest in products with a wide performance range but are simple to operate.
“That’s why we have received a great deal of encouragement for our consistent operating concept which extends beyond motors, fans and controllers,” Fenkl said. “This means that installation and service must be carried out faster and safer for the OEMs and their customers.”
The number of employees at Ziehl-Abegg has risen to more than 3,550, up from 3,450.
“We are very positive about the outlook for 2017,” he said.