Driving Markets with Magnetic Solutions
Interview with Jürgen Malz, Managing Director of Schienle Magnettechnik + Elektronik GmbH
With explosion-proof magnetic solutions, high manufacturing expertise, and growing presence in medical technology, Schienle Magnettechnik + Elektronik GmbH positions itself as an innovative SME from the Lake Constance district. Managing Director Jürgen Malz talks to us about technological developments, ambitious growth targets, and the conditions for sustainable entrepreneurship in Germany.
From a traditional craft company to an innovative medium-sized business specializing in explosion-proof magnet technology: The story of Schienle Magnettechnik + Elektronik GmbH is a tale of grounded success. Founded in 1976 and part of a strong corporate group since HAWE Hydraulik's entry in 1998, the company from the Bodensee district has developed into an agile specialist with 130 employees. Originally, Schienle emerged from the automation technology of Rohwedder, an endeavor shared with today’s competitor Schramme, with whom it shares roots in Markdorf. The managing director, Jürgen Malz, knows the company like few others - he trained here and has accompanied its growth for decades: 'I did my apprenticeship at Schienle, experienced the founder firsthand, and helped build the company. Today, I want to ensure that it remains a stable, attractive employer in the region for the future.' With an annual turnover of around 17 million EUR and a clear goal in mind, Schienle is looking forward: Gaining more independence from the parent company, entering new markets such as medical technology, and establishing a separate corporate headquarters are concrete components of this vision.
Slim, Fast, Specialized
Schienle consciously focuses on specialization rather than mass production. The core competency lies in the production of hydraulic and explosion-proof magnets, which are used in niche applications worldwide—from oil and gas extraction to underground mining. The increasing global demand for rare earths and raw materials also drives applications in the mining sector—a market in which Schienle is increasingly in demand. Recently, medical technology is also gaining significance as a new pillar. \
Reliability as a Culture
Shortages of skilled workers, geopolitical uncertainties, and economic fluctuations are challenges that Schienle addresses with a clear employee philosophy and high adaptability. In times of short-time work and recession, the company scores with stability, scope for design, and fair conditions - aspects that employees especially appreciate. Jürgen Malz emphasizes: "Our people know they can rely on us. At the same time, we offer them room for co-creation - that's what makes us stand out as an employer." Digitalization, environmental certifications according to ISO 14001, ISO 50001, and ISO 45001, as well as targeted investments in modern technologies secure the company's future viability. New developments such as intelligent actuators, the integration of electronics, and the expansion of medical technology mark current innovation priorities. Sustainability is pursued as a strategic goal despite all challenges, even though implementation is often slowed down by external factors.
Future with Attitude
Schienle Magnettechnik + Elektronik GmbH looks forward with confidence and at the same time clearly positions itself against bureaucratic obstacles that hinder growth in Germany. The search for a building plot in Bodenseekreis is proving difficult despite a high willingness to invest. 'We have written to all the municipalities – no response, no offer. It's frustrating,' reports Jürgen Malz. In parallel, the company pursues ambitious growth plans: new markets both domestically and abroad, a stronger diversification of the portfolio, and doubling the revenue by 2030. Additionally, trade fairs and digital visibility – especially via LinkedIn – are part of the marketing strategy, supported by targeted SEO activities.
The international market remains important, but issues with supply chains are causing a partial relocalization back to Europe. 'We finally need a Germany as a location where corporate growth is not hindered by regulations, but rather promoted through targeted investments,' says Jürgen Malz. With a firm focus on future technologies, qualified young professionals, and a stable position in the global competition, Schienle positions itself as a reliable partner with a sustainable perspective.