A Multi-Generational Milestone

Family-owned for 150 years, Lochbühler Aufzüge celebrates its past, present and future.

Mannheim, Germany-based Lochbühler Aufzüge GmbH is commemorating a significant anniversary — 150 years in business. Founded in 1873 by Georg Lochbühler and led by members of the family’s fourth, fifth and sixth generations, the company is one of the most successful in the Rhine-Neckar metropolitan region. Lochbühler Aufzüge completes approximately 100 new installations and modernizations each year, including passenger and freight elevators (in standard and custom designs), small goods elevators, accessibility solutions, home lifts and more. Additionally, the company services several thousand in-house and third-party installations. 

Innovation has been a core value of the business since its genesis in the late 19th century. Lochbühler began as a blacksmith’s shop in the town of Seckenheim, which had just become part of the newly founded German Empire. Industrialization was taking off in nearby Mannheim; however, Seckenheim remained agricultural. Recognizing the region’s need for mechanical equipment, the Lochbühler family expanded offerings to include a novel range of agriculture and household appliances. Selling ovens, stoves, farming machinery and even bicycles and motorcycles, the company laid a strong foundation for growth.

Lochbühler manufactured its first elevator in 1925, but it wasn’t until 1960 that fourth-generation leader Karlheinz Lochbühler decided to focus completely on this new business segment. Not long after, the company was producing almost all components needed for its elevators. Today, Lochbühler Aufzüge has more than 70 employees, operating out of its newly constructed office in the Mannheim Friedrichsfeld industrial area. Three generations of the founding family work alongside each other, with senior leader Karlheinz Lochbühler sharing management responsibilities with his two sons, Andreas and Stefan Lochbühler. The legacy continues with Marc-Steffen Lochbühler (and Dominic Lochbühler who will join in a few years) representing the sixth generation. 

Throughout 2023, Lochbühler Aufzüge has acknowledged its anniversary through a series of events and initiatives, including an investment in work-life balance with a 37.5-h week and the introduction of a new logo and corporate brand identity. Looking back at the company’s unique history and forward toward its continued success, the Lochbühler family seeks to thank the region, its people and, especially, its employees for their loyalty and support in making this milestone possible.