In the anniversary year, the signs are more than ever pointing to growth: In April, Gugelfuss took over the PVC windows and doors division of the Illerplastic group of companies based in Illertissen (we reported). The traditional company is thus further expanding its production capacities. With its wide range of windows, doors, lift-and-slide doors and facade systems as well as its professional service offer, the company is one of the leading specialists in Germany and Switzerland.
"We are very proud that we, as a family-run company, have developed so fantastically over 130 years. This requires consistency, the courage to go new ways and of course the cohesion within the entrepreneurial family," says Anton Gugelfuß, Managing Director of Gugelfuss GmbH.
Facing the future with smart tools
The company is also optimally positioned for the future. "Especially in the area of digitalisation, we have achieved a lot in recent years. Just in time for our anniversary year, we have once again stepped up our game for our customers and partners and developed smart tools," explains co-managing director Martin Gugelfuß. The digital package includes the Multitrade dealer software, soon the iQuote window configurator, the entrance door configurator, the planning software and the new online presence.
Anton and Martin Gugelfuß manage the company together with authorised signatory Susanne Gugelfuß-Dannerbauer in the fourth and fifth generation. In addition to the headquarters in Elchingen (Bavaria), there are three other production sites in Illertissen and Straß (both also in Bavaria), Beerwalde (in Thuringia) as well as Gugelfuss AG based in Glarus, Switzerland.
Hard to believe which product was first manufactured at Gugelfuss
Gugelfuss
Johann Gugelfuß founded the company in 1891. At the age of 18, he registered his cooperage and was engaged in the production of wine barrels. However, the foundation for today's business was laid in 1971 by his great-grandson Martin Gugelfuß Sr. together with his wife Renate. With the decision to specialise in vinyl windows at an early stage, the company is one of the pioneers in this market segment.
See also: CareyGlass buys Glaston‘s 2,500th glass lifting machine
Since 1985, Martin's brother Anton Gugelfuß has also been a member of the management team, focusing on sales. Today, the Gugelfuss family business is not only known for its windows, but also for its entrance doors. The production of wooden entrance doors began in 1982 when Martin Gugelfuß Sr. took over the Wenger joinery in Pfaffenhofen.
A new generation takes over
In 2012, the next generation took the helm: Martin Gugelfuß Sr. handed over to his children Susanne and Martin. During this time, a new production hall for PVC construction elements was also built at the company's headquarters in Elchingen (17,600 m2 plot, 6,500 m2 commercial area). The new building was equipped with an automatic high-bay warehouse and a wood chip heating plant.
Also interesting: BarteltGlasBerlin no longer uses plastic packaging
With the 2021 acquisition of Illerplastic GmbH, the company has taken a big step and significantly expanded its production capacities. The company's management is already supported by the sixth generation.
One thousand units per day
Up to 1,000 units of windows, doors and facade systems leave the production facilities every day. The medium-sized company, which currently employs around 350 people, is thus one of the largest window and door manufacturers in southern Germany.
Gugelfuss
