Rheinau, Germany: Zimmer Group celebrated its 45th anniversary last year. What began in 1980 with the founding of Zimmer GmbH Technische Werkstätten by brothers Günther and Martin Zimmer in a converted cowshed in Rheinau-Freistett has developed into an internationally active technology company with 1,400 employees today. For 10 years now, the family-run company has been preparing for a gradual generational change.
From pioneering days to technology leader
The company made a name for itself early on with solutions in automation and handling technology. In 1992, the development of the PowerStop shock absorber series set new standards in the industry, followed two years later by clamping elements for profile rails – the beginning of a market leadership in this segment that continues to this day.
With the acquisition of Sommer-automatic GmbH (1999) and the bundling of all activities under the Zimmer Group umbrella brand (2013), the company laid the foundation for a clear structure and a broad product portfolio – factors that remain key to its success today, providing stability for the family-run company even in economically challenging times. The introduction of mechatronic and MRK-capable grippers in 2014 underscored the company’s commitment to remaining an innovation driver in the industry.
The group has also grown steadily internationally and continues to do so. Following the expansion of the Rheinau-Freistett site in 2016, state-of-the-art plants were opened in Jintan, China, and India in 2024 – further milestones on the road to global presence. The Zimmer Group is now represented worldwide with 20 branches in different countries, with the aim of creating global synergies. With its regional locations, the company deliberately focuses on short distances to local markets and customers.
Internationalization creates stability
The Zimmer Group places particular emphasis on the North American market, among others – a field that has developed extremely dynamically in recent years. Vincent Zimmer, Managing Director of the North American subsidiary, describes the mood: “In English, you would call it excitement. The US market is currently THE growth market for the Zimmer Group.”
Against the backdrop of a tense economic situation in Europe, he sees international expansion as a necessary and sensible step. This allows the company to support its colleagues in Germany and ensure greater stability in times of crisis.
With the expansion of its US structures, the Zimmer Group is consciously taking a long-term perspective. “It’s a great opportunity and we’ve built a fantastic team here. We are developing very, very well,” says Vincent Zimmer. The North American location is representative of the strategic orientation of the group of companies: close to customers, excellently positioned regionally and at the same time closely linked to the headquarters in Rheinau.
Values, responsibility, and generational change
In addition to technological successes and international expansion, corporate culture plays a central role. Managing Director Jonas Zimmer describes it as “a culture that combines performance and cooperation—open, honest, and learning-oriented, with a clear focus on customer benefit.” He emphasizes that diversity of perspectives and personal responsibility are still decisive factors for success today: “Culture is reflected in how you deal with challenges—constructively, respectfully, and based on facts.”
This attitude also characterizes the generational change within the Zimmer family, which has been implemented gradually and with great foresight for years. The next generation has long been firmly anchored in the company: Jonas Zimmer is a member of the management team at the headquarters in Rheinau, Vincent Zimmer is responsible for managing the North American subsidiary, and other family members hold key positions in areas such as production, development, and production controlling.
This means that even after the planned, gradual retirement of founders Günther and Martin Zimmer, the Zimmer Group will remain a clearly family-run company – with leadership that guarantees stability, continuity, and long-term thinking. For employees and customers, this means security, reliability, and a clear orientation toward shared values. Jonas Zimmer sees this as an essential part of the company’s success: “We have to change in order to survive. External conditions simply demand it. Nevertheless, we want to preserve many things for the next generation. In particular: mutual respect and sustainable action.”
Modern production – technology meets people
The combination of progress and responsibility is particularly evident in production. In recent years, Zimmer Group has consistently automated and digitized its manufacturing processes: mobile robots, driverless transport systems, and data-based production planning increase efficiency and flexibility. More data, strong system networking, coupled with modern software and the use of AI, now lead to better decisions more quickly.
At the same time, people remain a central component of production. Jonas Zimmer points out the importance of communication in a traditionally technical environment: “Especially in production and assembly, a hands-on mentality and open, goal-oriented discussion can improve many things.”
Sustainability as a lived commitment
Zimmer Group is also committed to long-term responsibility in the area of sustainability. The company’s energy supply already comes entirely from renewable sources. Photovoltaic systems on all buildings and open spaces deliver an output of around 2.5 megawatts – equivalent to the electricity needs of up to 800 households. In addition, CO₂-neutral electricity is sourced from a regional hydroelectric power plant.
In addition, almost all company buildings have been converted to heat pump technology. The remaining carbon footprint is largely limited to the vehicle fleet, which is to be completely converted to electric mobility by 2030. Jonas Zimmer sees this as a logical continuation of the family philosophy: “For us, sustainability means making decisions that will also work for the next generation.”
Looking to the future
Zimmer Group can look back on an impressive development over the last 45 years – from a pioneering craft business to a globally active automation partner. Supported by a generational change, the focus remains clearly on the future: the expansion of digital and sustainable production processes, the strengthening of international locations, and the promotion of a value-oriented corporate culture remain the main priorities. The Rheinau-Freistett location remains the heart and origin of a company that wants to continue combining technology and responsibility in the future.