NEW BEGINNING - SAME CUSTOMER FOCUS
Two months ago I had to explain to our customers that SMI’s parent company in Germany had filed insolvency in the German courts. At that time, I pledged that we would continue to support our customers as we always had and that this would be a short-term situation. As our team in Twinsburg committed to stay the course through this difficult time, our loyal customers rallied to support us. I am personally grateful for both and am pleased to announce that Stürtz Maschinenbau has emerged from the court proceedings stronger than ever!
As of this week, a new ownership group has stepped in and acquired all the assets of Stürtz Maschinenbau. They have also taken majority ownership in SMI here in OH but both Don Johnsen and I retain our ownership positions. Also, my old friend Karl-Heinz Stürtz is still active in Germany and will remain the President and CEO of the SMI subsidiary.
We are very happy to have a fresh start but our focus on our customers and on leading the way in technology and innovation remains as strong as ever. Our financial position is now stronger than it was and we are optimistic this all comes at the right time as the US fenestration market is getting stronger.
Wednesday, March 6th, the SMI staff raised a collective glass to toast our new owners, the opportunities for us to move forward and to our outstanding group of customers who support us and stand by us during the tough times. Here’s to you!
Ellis L Dillen
Stürtz Machinery Inc.,
Vice President and Chief Operating Officer
Read the official press release of Stürtz GmbH online
Read the whole DWM Magazine report online
Read the whole Window&Door Magazine report online
