ICEBEAR manufactures battery-powered equipment used in the maintenance of artificial ice. The company produces two types of ice resurfacers: conditioners and conveyor auger resurfacers. It also offers a range of custom-made equipment, such as water sprayers, laser-controlled blade adjustment units, fluting harrows, and edgers. Moreover, ICEBEAR operates a fleet of maintenance vehicles and offers both sales and rentals of new and used equipment, as well as supplying spare parts to dealers.
ICEBEAR was established in 2004, when Canadian firm Olympia acquired Eisbär Elektrik, which had been involved in the production of electric ice resurfacers since the 1980s. The parent company is the world's leading manufacturer of ice resurfacing equipment, and ICEBEAR itself ranks third. Today, ICEBEAR has 25 employees.
ICEBEAR's target groups include domestic clients (approximately 250 ice rinks in Germany) as well as international customers in North America, Russia, Japan, China, Eastern Europe, and Scandinavia, especially in Sweden, where it has 90% of the market share.
“Our products are a success factor in their own right, as they offer the premium quality and efficiency that characterize the Made in Germany brand.” Executive Director Thomas Möllering
“Our products are a success factor in their own right, as they offer the premium quality and efficiency that characterize the Made in Germany brand,” states Executive Director Thomas Möllering. “Our machinery is made to last and is a good example of fine workmanship. We also pay attention to the selection of materials, as all our essential components are made of durable stainless steel.”
ICEBEAR's operational efforts are directed towards technological progress and maximum efficiency. The company is behind the development of battery-operated machines that do not emit exhaust gases and was one of the first to apply the concept of regenerative braking, which improves operational safety and prolongs battery life. Production, assembly, and finishing touches are done in-house, which facilitates quality control at every stage of the manufacturing process.
“We are known for our great service network and we can respond to customer requests in just two or three hours.” Executive Director Thomas Möllering
Responsiveness is also a key success factor. “We are known for our great service network and we can respond to customer requests in just two or three hours,” says Mr. Möllering.
For ICEBEAR's executive director, having the global market leader Olympia as the parent company is a guarantee of success. “The outstanding reputation of this manufacturer helps us create synergies with current and potential customers,” explains Mr. Möllering.
As a result, ICEBEAR can expect a bright future. “We are confident,” affirms Mr. Möllering. “Our goal is to increase our market share, which is currently at 30% in Germany.” To achieve this goal, the company has a targeted marketing strategy in place and hopes to maintain close contact with its customer base, using the feedback generated by clients to assist them in future product development.
