Patience and Innovation

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The Roots of ZOLLER development in Germany

Every great journey starts with a single step. For the 80-year history of ZOLLER, this step was taken on September 1, 1945: Alfred Zoller opened a mechanical workshop in Ludwigsburg. It initially developed into an important partner for the machining industry in Germany. Read the entire ZOLLER history on the anniversary page. 

Machining Right From the Start

Machining has always played a key role for ZOLLER. Master mechanic 
Alfred Zoller not only repaired engines, machines, and toys, but he also made and sold lighters to American soldiers using his lathe. From 1948, he produced tool holders for lathes under license. This marked the beginning of our machining legacy. 

The First 35 years: 
Growing step by step in Germany

In 1958, Alfred Zoller built the world's first presetter capable of externally presetting turning tools. By 1969, the design was ready for series production, with 30 units sold that year alone. What began as a workshop had grown into a full-fledged company. At that time, customers were mainly from Germany, but from the 1980s onwards, ZOLLER also developed internationally. Through patience, continuity, and innovation, ZOLLER built a foundation for global success.  

Four locations in Germany, 25 foreign branches

In the 80th year of its existence, ZOLLER is a modern and still highly innovative company. The small workshop in which Alfred Zoller once worked alone has become an international technology leader with 400 employees in Pleidelsheim, a total of four locations in Germany and a presence in over 60 other countries.

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