WINTERSTEIGER: Record Cash Flow and Strategic Moves Pave the Way for the Future
Bolstered by record-high free cash flow, WINTERSTEIGER is setting an important strategic course with a focused expansion into North America and the establishment of a new Division.
“Europe remains our anchor, but to ensure sustainable growth, we are focusing on dynamic markets such as North America,” explains WINTERSTEIGER CEO Harold Kostka. Following the successful introduction of a holding company structure in 2023, the machinery and plant engineering group, headquartered in Ried im Innkreis, Upper Austria, reorganized its North American business—which accounts for about a quarter of the group’s revenue—in 2024: The long-standing centralized structure in Salt Lake City was transformed into three specialized companies, each specifically serving the needs of the three major divisions: Seedmech (Iowa), Division Sports (Utah), and Woodtech (Tennessee). At the same time, the acquisition of a majority stake in Union Grove Saw & Knife Inc., a leading sawing tool manufacturer in North Carolina, was successfully completed at the start of the year. With this acquisition, WINTERSTEIGER is strengthening its presence in the Appalachian region—a hub for woodworking—and expanding its portfolio along the value chain.
Focus on International Market Trends
A native of Vorarlberg who grew up in Austria, Asia, England, and Switzerland, he is an experienced executive with a track record in North America, Central Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region. Over the past five years, Bilgeri headed the Liebherr Group’s mobile and crawler crane division in the U.S., where he significantly increased revenue. For him, the keys to success are, above all, profitable growth through operational excellence, sustainable customer satisfaction, international market development, and, last but not least, an outstanding work environment.
“With Mr. Bilgeri, we are gaining a leader who not only has international management experience but, above all, shares our values and vision,” says outgoing CEO Dr. Florestan von Boxberg with conviction. “I am certain that Mr. Bilgeri, with his professional expertise and positive demeanor, will provide important new momentum.”
Bilgeri is a graduate of the International School of Lausanne in Switzerland and Royal Holloway University of London. The 36-year-old is married and the father of one son. In his free time, the FIS-certified ski instructor enjoys sports, spends time in nature, and loves to travel.
Prospects for Growth and Digitalization
Despite current market challenges, WINTERSTEIGER looks to the future with optimism. Effective October 1, the company acquired the Sports Rental software for its Division Sports from the German firm SR Software GmbH & Co. KG. This step is an important milestone for the Rent & Service business unit and opens up new opportunities for growth, digitalization, and customer access. “We are continuing to invest in the future of ski rental: innovatively, digitally, and in close collaboration with our customers,” said Boxberg.
Facts, Figures, and Data: Union Grove Saw & Knife Inc.
Founded: 1983
Headquarters: Union Grove, North Carolina, USA
Revenue: ~$5 million
Employees: approx. 60
Products: Circular and band saw blades, other sawing tools, accessories, and service
Website: www.sawandknife.com