Automation expert Bachmann posts record turnover

March 3, 2025

Feldkirch-based supplier Bachmann Electronic draws a positive conclusion for the past year, but also has political and bureaucratic stumbling blocks in mind.

The Austrian automation specialist looks back on a “successful financial year” in 2024. Among other things, a new record figure was achieved. According to a recent press release, Bachmann increased its turnover to a new all-time high: the bottom line was €108 million. This represents an increase of 3.8% or € 4 million compared to the previous year. The positive development becomes clearer if you look at a slightly longer period: From 2019 to 2024, the increase amounts to 54%.

While the situation in European mechanical engineering, one of the company’s three core markets, remains difficult, Bachmann Electronic was able to grow further thanks to “innovative expansions, including in renewable energies, especially wind energy”, according to the company. Energy management in particular, including storage solutions based on battery and hydrogen technologies, is becoming increasingly important in this area.

“The aim is to drive forward the development of autonomous shipping”

The company has also been able to expand in maritime high-tech applications and in traditional shipbuilding. The aim here is to drive forward the development of autonomous shipping and sustainable ship operating concepts.

However, there are also aspects that tend to cause concern: despite the new sales record, the past year was characterized by numerous challenges that will persist in 2025. “The disproportionately high cost increases in Europe pose major hurdles for internationally operating companies. In addition to personnel costs, expenses for IT security and software were the main cost drivers,” explained Beat Rünzler, CAO (Chief Administrative Officer) at Bachmann. Added to this were stricter legal framework conditions. This is immediately followed by a clear message from Brussels: “The European Union’s promise to reduce bureaucracy has so far remained lip service. The regulatory requirements are increasing rather than decreasing, which is slowing down even high-performing companies like Bachmann considerably,” said Bernhard Zangerl, Bachmann CEO, criticizing the politicians.

Regardless of these stumbling blocks, Bachmann intends to continue to grow this year and is pursuing a cautious growth course. “The political and economic conditions worldwide are unpredictable, which makes long-term planning difficult,” said Rünzler. Nevertheless, the company remains optimistic. “We can’t do anything with too much pessimism,” says CEO Zangerl. “That’s why we will continue to drive forward new opportunities and solutions with full commitment and a healthy dose of optimism in 2025.”