HISTORY
Valves and system solutions through the ages
A SUCCESS STORY MADE IN GERMANY: THE HISTORY OF UNI GERÄTE.
We strike ground-breaking paths with our valves and system solutions – and open a new chapter. And we’ve been doing so for more than 75 years. We would like to present this success story in more detail and illustrate the key milestones below.
“From baking hoods to electrical engineering.”
“From baking hoods to electrical engineering.”
1945 – THE ORIGINS
When Edmund Mangelmann founded Uni-Geräte GmbH M. Boehm in Hösel near Düsseldorf, he laid the foundations for the future success of the company. In the early days, valves and system solutions were not yet part of the product portfolio. The first big sellers were the Uni baking and cooker hoods for kitchen use that the founder developed in 1945. One year later, the company was rebranded to be the partnership Uni-Geräte E-Mangelmann Elektrotechnische Fabrik.
“The first valves for heaters and washing machines.”
1950s – THE FIRST VALVES
The founder continued to produce Uni baking and cooker hoods until the beginning of the 1950s. In addition, contract work for technical equipment was now carried out. Uni Geräte produced the first valves for heaters and washing machines within this context. At the end of the 1950s, the company also produced cable harnesses which were used in a very special machine: the first German domestic washing machine from Constructa. On 25 August 1958, the company headquarters was relocated to Weeze, where the company was able to acquire new premises including halls from Heinrich Geenen.
“Quality that impresses.”
1970s – INCREASING DEMAND
The valves and fittings from Uni Geräte impressed and the company grew. The operation was expanded to include a new mechanics hall with impressive dimensions of 80 by 14 metres. And things changed somewhat on the legal front: the partnership became Uni-Geräte E-Mangelmann Elektrotechnische Fabrik GmbH.
“A new era on the horizon.”
1980s – FAREWELL TO THE FOUNDER
Edmund Mangelmann died on 7 January 1984 and the second generation of the family took the helm of the company: Inge Klaus, the founder’s daughter, became the new Managing Partner in 1984. She was supported by long-standing Prokurist (authorised signatory) Wilhelm-Otto Scheidt, who rose to a new position as a director in the same year.
“Pioneer in Europe.”
1990s – GROWTH YEARS
Uni Geräte tapped into new markets across Europe with its ground-breaking valves and system solutions – starting in France before moving on to the Benelux countries and then Finland. Angela Klaus, the founder’s granddaughter, became a Prokurist for the company in 1993. Two years later, Uni Geräte obtained its first certification in accordance with DIN ISO 9001. Furthermore, the company registered the patent for its solenoid valve on 6 October 1999. The same year also saw significant changes in terms of staff: long-standing director Wilhelm-Otto Scheidt left the company, while Norbert Schneider joined the company as Prokurist for the technical division.
“Tapping into global markets.”
2000s – OUT INTO THE WORLD
Austria, Hungary, South Korea. Australia, Turkey, China. Italy and Sweden. Uni Geräte tapped into key markets around the globe in the 2000s. Angela Klaus and Norbert Schneider took on the role of directors of Uni Geräte in 2003. In the years that followed, the company built a new office wing and a new administration building. Two new patents were also granted in 2007 and 2009: one for the “solenoid” development and the other for the double shut-off valve which is recommended in particular for gaseous media.
“Increasing demand ensures growth.”
2010s – TIME OF CHANGE
The increasing demand for valves and system solutions from Uni Geräte resulted in the construction of an additional warehouse with shipping area. The company tapped into the market in India and initiated its reorganisation phase in 2016. Two years later, Angela Klaus stepped down as director and passed the baton to her successor, Thomas Diepenbruck. The technical side also had a lot going on: Uni Geräte was granted the patent for the enclosure to hold a GVU for ships with a gas engine in 2019.
“Focus on safety.”
2020s – EVEN GREATER SAFETY
The topic of safety has always been a top priority for Uni Geräte. This is also reflected in the numerous certifications that the company holds. The company obtained AGA certification – the Australian Gas Association quality seal – in 2021. UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) certification followed in 2022. Thomas Diependruck left the company in 2023. His successor and the new director, alongside Norbert Schneider, was Hans Georg Janßen.
