Modernization and expansion at KURRE Systems successfully completed
Over the past year, the KURRE Group has implemented a series of strategic optimizations. The German company, which encompasses KURRE Systems (special machinery for the cable and wire industry), KUTEC (metal construction), and the extrusion expert SIEBE Engineering, has made significant strides in many areas, resulting in a marked increase in efficiency. Managing Director Stefan Plaggenborg provided us with insights into these developments.
KURRE Systems has had a milestone year, Mr. Plaggenborg. What were the most significant achievements for the KURRE Group in 2024?
Plaggenborg: Indeed, 2024 has been a pivotal year, bringing us forward in numerous ways. As our employees often say, “It never gets boring.” The key milestones included our successful participation at WIRE in Düsseldorf, as well as major modernization and expansion projects at our two primary locations.
KURRE Managing Director Stefan Plaggenborg in the new section of the assembly hall.
WIRE was a highlight for the entire industry. However, let’s turn to your optimization initiatives – what was the driving force behind them?
Plaggenborg: In today’s dynamic market environment, staying successful requires continuous monitoring and adaptation – and this is what has always defined KURRE. Since our founding in 1979, we have experienced steady growth. It was time to take the next significant step to ensure we are fully prepared for the future – benefiting our employees, suppliers, and, most importantly, our customers.
What specifically does this next step involve?
Plaggenborg: Our order intake and the growing focus on research and development necessitated additional space. We were able to expand our headquarters in Ramsloh to accommodate this growth. This summer, we increased our production area by 2,000 square meters and our office space by approximately 1,000 square meters. For the first time, this allowed us to consolidate the assembly of extruders and control systems for extrusion lines under one roof. Previously, this part of the process had been carried out at our site in Neustadt/Wied.
Just two months later, the new hall is filled with ongoing projects.
This refers to the SIEBE Engineering location, correct?
Plaggenborg: Exactly. Thanks to this expansion, we can now combine mechanical and electrical assembly in Ramsloh. As a result, we were able to establish a new, more modern facility for SIEBE Engineering. Since October, engineering, process technology, programming, commissioning, and portions of sales and project management have been relocated to a nearby site in Bad Honnef.
These seem like significant changes. How do these improvements benefit your customers?
Plaggenborg: Our customers are always our top priority. The more efficient and flexible production processes now allow us to better meet their specific needs. The integration of mechanical and electrical assembly enables us to deliver optimized solutions and respond more quickly to changing demands. This benefits not only our customers but also enhances our internal capabilities. Additionally, through investments in modern machinery for our KUTEC division, we have increased our production capacity. The expanded assembly space now allows us to commission multiple extrusion systems in full length – an important step forward.
Another section of the hall provides space for future projects.
The additional space now allows for the installation of complete extrusion systems.
You mentioned research and development. What advancements have been made in this area?
Plaggenborg: Several years ago, we developed the laboratory extruder – an innovative machine with adjustable parameters, ideal for testing new polymers. We have since expanded our research and development efforts significantly, allowing us to collaborate with our customers to achieve the best possible outcomes. Our in-house laboratory extrusion system is now fully operational, offering the capability to conduct a wide range of tests.
It sounds like you are well-positioned to meet future challenges.
Plaggenborg: Absolutely. While the past months have presented their challenges, we are now in an excellent position to move forward. Both we and our customers are well-equipped to face the future with confidence.
