The Gebr. Otto und Heinrich Müller Holzbearbeitung GmbH has stood for the highest quality and precision in wood processing for nearly a century. With continuity, innovation, and sustainability, the company sets standards in the industry.

Family Business Since 1925

The success story of Gebr. Otto and Heinrich Müller Holzbearbeitung GmbH began in 1925 when Heinrich Müller opened a carpentry shop in Altenessen. Over the following decades, the company grew continuously, with each generation of the Müller family developing and sustainably expanding the business. A decisive step was taken by the 4th generation, when Heinrich Müller's great-grandsons, brothers Matthias and Stephan Müller, took over the company in 2012 and upgraded the operations to the latest technology. With an investment of 30 million EUR, they transformed the wood processing into one of the most highly automated production lines in Germany. 'Through our automation, we are now able to produce windows worth about 40 million EUR annually with only 25 employees,' explains the commercial authorized signatory Thomas Rustige. 'This efficiency is unique in our industry.' A crucial value that is lived at Müller Holzbearbeitung is the commitment to the workforce and their development. 'Our employees are at the heart of our company. During tough times, we stand 100% behind them and offer support,' says Thomas Rustige. This philosophy ensures a close and loyal team and enables open communication and flat hierarchies.

Innovation and Sustainability as Keys to Success

The company not only values the highest precision in manufacturing but also sustainable production. The windows and doors are made from wood sourced from ecologically responsibly managed forests and meet the strict standards of the FSC or PEFC quality seal. "We produce a product that meets today's sustainability requirements while simultaneously fulfilling the highest technical standards," explains Thomas Rustige. Especially in the area of thermal insulation, the firm sets standards. The windows achieve outstanding values in energy efficiency and at the same time provide high sound insulation. "Normally, thermal insulation and sound insulation are technically opposed," explains Thomas Rustige. "We are all the more proud that we can optimally combine both properties. This is a unique selling point that sets us apart in the market." The high quality and durability of the products make Gebr. Otto und Heinrich Müller Holzbearbeitung GmbH the first choice for large-scale projects and specialized constructions. Reference projects include, among others, the construction of two sections of the Württembergische Versicherung in Kornwestheim – one of the largest window and facade projects in the region. "Our claim is to deliver technically sophisticated and customized solutions," emphasizes Thomas Rustige. "In doing so, we work closely with the contracting authorities to achieve optimal results."

Strategic Market Orientation

In July 2024, Manuel Nicolai took over the management of sales to further expand the business and lead the company into new markets. "Our market position in public tenders and large projects is very strong," reports Manuel Nicolai. "Now we would like to increasingly serve the B2B market and expand our business with small and medium-sized enterprises and craft companies." A key innovation is the introduction of a modular post-and-beam facade, which customers can purchase in the form of a ready-made kit. "These products are specifically intended for companies such as woodworkers, metalworkers, carpenters, and medium-sized window manufacturers who are looking for individual facade solutions, thereby enhancing their product portfolio and simultaneously benefiting from the precision production and quality of the 'Müller' brand," explains Manuel Nicolai. The modular design also allows smaller, medium-sized companies to access high-quality facade elements cost-effectively. To further promote sales, the company relies on a mix of personal contacts and trade fairs. "In our industry, personal interaction and individual consultation are crucial. We are also considering which digital avenues can additionally help us reach customers," says Manuel Nicolai. In addition to the sales plans, Müller Woodworking is also on a growth track in terms of production volume. "From the beginning to the middle of 2025, we will open a second production facility, which will allow us to double the turnover within the next five years," reports Thomas Rustige. "The new location will also include the production of facades, thus expanding our customer base and range of services."

Countercyclical Investments

Although the market is currently facing challenges, Müller Woodworking is relying on a countercyclical growth strategy. "Swimming with the current is something anyone can do," says Thomas Rustige. "Our approach is to invest specifically in difficult times in order to be even stronger after the market recovers." The planned expansion and the investment in the new production facility with a volume of 15 to 20 million EUR are expressions of this strategy. Müller Woodworking sees itself well-prepared to continue serving the demand in the German market in the coming years. "The German market in project business remains our core market and we are convinced that we can continue to grow here," explains Thomas Rustige. "At the same time, we are working in the B2B segment to expand our presence in the European space, aiming to leverage the potential internationally."