Ziehl-Abegg, the German manufacturer of fans and drive motors, has reported preliminary figures for 2025 showing annual revenue exceeding EUR 1 billion for the first time in its 116-year history. This represents a year-on-year growth of more than 12% compared to EUR 893 million in 2024. The company’s global workforce increased from 5,300 to 5,800 employees.
Strong international business was a key growth driver. The United States became Ziehl-Abegg’s most important foreign market, generating well over 20% of total revenue. A EUR 100 million investment in a new plant, launched in 2024, supported operations and delivery capability across North America. China remained the company’s second-largest foreign market, with a focus on regional product development tailored to local requirements.
In 2025, Ziehl-Abegg introduced what it calls a world first: a synchronous elevator machine that operates without magnets made from rare earths, while maintaining performance and installation size. The new motor design aims to increase technological independence and ensure production stability amid global supply uncertainties.
The company emphasized its high level of vertical integration, including in-house foundry, sheet-metal, and plastics operations, as a strategic advantage. Ziehl-Abegg’s fans and drive systems are used in HVAC, refrigeration, elevator systems, cleanrooms, agriculture, and medical technology across more than 100 countries.
“This milestone is more than just a number to us – it represents the performance, commitment and cohesion of our teams around the world,” said CEO Joachim Ley. “2025 was not an easy year. Exchange rates, tariffs and geopolitical uncertainties put many markets under pressure. That makes this result all the more impressive and demonstrates what we are capable of as a company.”
