August 2025

Pollmann presents initial review of the Vitis relocation

In the manner of a Formula-1 pit stop, the company has demonstrated that complex relocation projects can be executed with maximum precision, quality and efficiency.

PrensaMisceláneo

Karlstein/Vitis August 2025 – As part of the “Simply:Pollmann” transformation initiative, Pollmann International today publishes a positive interim report after four months on the relocation of its Vitis production site to Karlstein. The relocations completed to date have proceeded exactly according to plan and have already delivered convincing initial performance figures.

Record-breaking production transfer
The relocation of the first fully automated injection-moulding housing production line (500 t clamping force) was completed and commissioned in a remarkable 192 hours at the end of June. Since then the line has been running in a three-shift operation with an overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) of over 90%. With these results, Pollmann has exceeded its internal targets and created the conditions for a seamless ramp-up into production.

First phase successfully completed
In early July, two further fully automated assembly lines for the production of door-lock housings (total area: 300 m²) were relocated to Karlstein on schedule. Each line was transported, reassembled and successfully commissioned within one week. The produced validation parts passed all quality checks, enabling immediate continuation of serial production. In parallel, the transfer of an additional production line to Pollmann’s plant in the Czech Republic commenced on 14 July. To date, a total of 14 truckloads, comprising approximately 95 tonnes of machinery and peripheral equipment, have been relocated. For transport, the machines were disassembled into 56 subassemblies; the heaviest machine weighed 27 tonnes. With the scheduled completion of these measures, the first phase of the relocation works has been closed out on time. Following a short summer break, relocations of further injection-moulding machines will resume on 8 September, with the remaining activities scheduled for completion on 7 November 2025.

Teamwork and organisation
To meet the tight schedule, a core team of 40 technicians was assembled. Tasks and work steps were planned and coordinated to the hour to execute the moves with the efficiency of a Formula-1 pit stop. Several lines were realigned and now require up to 50% less floor space. The teams comprised specialists from across the Pollmann Group, including Maxxom, toolmaking, maintenance, project management, facility services, process development and series production. It was ensured that the lines were able to operate 24/7 in multi-shift production both before and after the relocation.

Highest precision and confirmed quality
An independent audit certified the flawless installation of the equipment — even experienced inspectors found no scratches or damage. “Our customer was visibly impressed by the dedication and precision with which our team executed this project. The early successes of this plant relocation not only underscore the exceptional performance of our team, they also demonstrate what can be achieved through genuine collaboration across departments and locations,” said COO Robert Stubenberger.

Strengthening market position through relocation expertise
Machine and plant assembly is one of Pollmann’s core competencies. The current consolidation effort, however, gives the company an additional competitive edge: the documented best practices from this relocation wave enhance service quality and strengthen Pollmann’s market position.

Transparent internal communication and local engagement
As one of the largest employers in the district, Pollmann places great value on continuous information flow. “Open and transparent communication is a fixed element of our corporate culture — especially during a period of profound change. Through regular company briefings, direct team coordination and active engagement with local decision-makers, we create trust and orientation for the Pollmann team,” explained CSO Stefan Pollmann.

Actively shaping market fluctuations
“The current market fluctuations affect the entire industry — but instead of waiting for conditions to stabilise on their own, Pollmann is taking a different path. We think differently. We act proactively and shape change. The strategic consolidation of our sites is an expression of this approach — it is not merely a reaction to the market, but a deliberate step into the future,” Pollmann added.

Future outlook for the Vitis site
An orderly divestment of the modern Vitis site is planned. Initial discussions with potential industrial buyers are already underway. Thanks to its top-class equipment and recognition as one of Austria’s best factories, the Vitis site offers ideal conditions for future operators. With speed and precision, the family-owned company is addressing current market pressure while simultaneously laying the foundation for a stable, innovative and sustainable future.

If you have any questions, please contact:

Jasmin Schön, Marketing & Communications
+43 2844 223 1480, jasmin.schoen@pollmann.at

Stefan Pollmann, Management
+43 664 80 889 1191, stefan.pollmann@pollmann.at

Nicole Fuchs, Management Assistant
+43 2844 223 1486, nicole.fuchs@pollmann.at

Verlagerung Vitis-Produktion: Pollmann zieht erste Zwischenbilanz

Photo 1: Matthias Kitzler (Managing Director, Maxxom), Robert Stubenberger (COO, Pollmann International) and Harald Weber (Head of Operations, PAT) in front of the injection-moulding housing production line, the first to be relocated to Karlstein; Fotocredit: © Pollmann International
Photo 2: CSO Stefan Pollmann © Benjamin Wald

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