Record sales in anniversary year

The half-billion-euro sales mark represents a milestone in the company's history. "We are very proud to have achieved this result despite difficult general conditions. Our thanks go to the global Balluff team," said Managing Director Katrin Stegmaier-Hermle. Across the entire group, sales increased by 23 percent from 410 million euros in the previous year to 504 million euros. Sales growth across all regions was in the double-digit range. The Asia Pacific region was a driver for growth, with sales generated there increasing by 37 percent to 96 million euros.

Focus on core industries

Above all, high growth was achieved in Balluff's classic core industries, such as automotive, robotics and mechanical and plant engineering. "We implemented a number of major projects last year and thus expanded our volume business," explains Managing Director Frank Nonnenmann. Balluff is also continuing to drive forward its diversification: sales with customers from the packaging, food and beverage industries rose by 27 percent. Electromobility, in particular battery cell production, is another growth driver with a 50 percent increase in sales.

High order intake

Order intake at the end of the last fiscal year was 44 percent higher than in December 2020, and global demand for Balluff's sensor and automation solutions remains high. The company plans to further expand manufacturing capacity at its major series production sites. In addition, the global supplier base is to be expanded and the logistics and transport network is to be aligned even more closely with the regional needs of the markets.

Stories from 100 years of entrepreneurial spirit

Not only was Balluff's economic development in 2021 historic, but the year itself also marked an important milestone in the company's history: the hundredth anniversary of the company's founding. Because a large celebration was not possible due to the pandemic, the company took an innovative approach. To take interested parties on a journey through time, Balluff published an anniversary website that told numerous stories: contemporary witnesses, current projects, employees and international subsidiaries were presented, and industry experts commented on important topics for the future. In addition to the activities on the anniversary site, other measures such as a joint viral kick-off, an internal raffle or an anniversary package for every employee complimented the communication around the anniversary year. "A lot happens in 100 years. We have not only developed numerous innovations but have also moved with the times as a company," says Balluff Managing Director Florian Hermle. "We are taking this drive with us for the next 100 years as well."