Innovative Concrete Solutions – When Responsibility Meets Durability

When talking about highly resilient surfaces that not only carry tons of weight, but also combine environmental protection, safety, and economic efficiency, there is no way around BTE stelcon GmbH. The company, based in Germany, specializes in the manufacturing and development of precast concrete components, which are used wherever conventional coverings reach their limits.

The history of the company dates back to 1919, when founder Fritz Ebner established the company Industrieböden Fritz Ebner in Essen – a pioneer in his field who even then embraced university developments and translated them into industrial practice. 'Today, one would describe it as a start-up,' says Dirk-Uwe Spengler, who has been managing the company for many years. From the early idea of incorporating steel shavings into concrete, a culture of innovation has been maintained over a century. Today, the company employs about 85 permanent staff – supplemented by seasonal workers resulting in an annual workforce of around 100 people. The turnover is currently at 18 million EUR, with a clear goal to significantly increase this figure in the coming years. Since 2005, BTE stelcon has been part of a Dutch corporate group with around 900 employees and a turnover of 200 million EUR. Interestingly, the current shareholder has been the company's first commercial partner in the Benelux countries since its founding – a relationship that has grown over generations and continues to this day.

Innovation, Responsibility, and Future in Focus

The company focuses on three main business areas: industrial floor panels, railway crossing systems, and protection panels for substances hazardous to waters. The industrial panels – in the standard format of 2 × 2 meters – are used where maximum resilience is required: at port facilities, container terminals, or logistics areas. Unlike asphalt or traditional road concrete, they are resistant, modular, immediately usable, and replaceable if necessary. "We offer our customers options, not limitations," explains Dirk-Uwe Spengler. In the area of railway crossing systems, BTE stelcon has decades of experience. As early as 1962, they developed the first rail support plate together with Deutsche Bahn. Today, the company is taking a step further: In May 2025, two new systems were introduced – a bike rail with an integrated rubber profile for safe crossing by bicycle and a mass-spring system that reduces sound and vibrations – ideal for noise-sensitive areas. The third pillar is WHG-approved floor panels that prevent the penetration of hazardous liquids into the soil in the chemical industry, at tank farms, or transfer sites.

Tested systems that meet the highest legal and safety standards are used. In addition to product diversity, solution orientation is at the forefront at BTE stelcon. The company sees itself as a consultant, developer, and partner to its customers. "We first talk about the challenges our customers face – and when we have found the solution, then the customer also appreciates our price," says Dirk-Uwe Spengler. This attitude convinces B2B customers from the chemical, logistics, rail transport, and port industries. BTE stelcon also sets standards in sustainability. The precast concrete parts have a lifespan of over 50 years – significantly more than comparable products. They are dismantlable, reusable, and can be cleanly separated from other materials. At the same time, CO2 emissions are being reduced – for instance through investments in photovoltaics aimed at energy self-sufficiency. Research is also being conducted on CO2-binding or -storing additives in concrete. "When concrete is used correctly, it is an environmentally friendly building material with enormous future potential," explains Dirk-Uwe Spengler.

Another future topic involves pilot projects for integrating inductive charging coils — for example, for contactless power transfer to vehicles over concrete surfaces. Here, BTE stelcon is working closely with scientific and technical partners. Despite the high product weight, BTE stelcon acts internationally: The main market is in Germany, but neighboring countries are also supplied — particularly Scandinavia, where the durable solutions are highly appreciated. To meet the growing demands, the company is evaluating new locations. At the same time, digital visibility is being expanded through online marketing, social media, and website optimization. The presence at trade fairs is also to be intensified to strengthen the exchange with potential customers. The goal is to increase revenue to over 25 million EUR, bring new technologies to market readiness, and secure long-term growth. At the center is the human element. The employees' identification with the product, the family-like work environment, and the joy of collaborative development shape the culture. 'Over the years, I have grown to love concrete — and I love working with a team that creates genuine solutions with enthusiasm,' Dirk-Uwe Spengler concludes.