The years following 1989/90 were a significant turning point in the history of TAKRAF Group. The political transition brought an end to the era of centralized planning. All locations had to adapt to completely new conditions, such as competing on international markets.
Transition from a planned economy to a market economy
This transformation was challenging: the former state-owned combine became a modern, privately run company focusing on selected business areas. Many processes and structures had to be rethought, including organization, management and customer relations.
Privatization and new owners
Following the successful collaboration on the construction of a bucket wheel excavator, MAN purchased TAKRAF from the Treuhand in 1994, integrating its own material handling technology division into the company. Finally, TAKRAF was taken over by Tenova SpA, part of the Techint Group, in 2007. Each step brought changes, as well as investments in structures, management and international business relationships.
New raw materials and new markets
At the same time, the global raw materials market was changing. While lignite was gradually becoming less important in Europe, the global demand for copper, iron ore and other mineral raw materials was rising. In response, TAKRAF Group expanded its product portfolio. Its focus shifted towards processing and conveying equipment for open-pit ore mines, as well as providing complete solutions for the international mining industry.
Modern technology was key
Innovative technology enabled the company to win new customers in South America, Africa and Asia. Thus, TAKRAF Group developed from a traditional mechanical engineering company into a global provider of turnkey solutions for the mining and raw materials sector.
“The transition was a time of great uncertainty, but also an opportunity. With courage and an innovative spirit, TAKRAF Group successfully navigated this change and established itself in the international mining industry,” says Thomas Jabs, TAKRAF Group CEO.
In November, we will outline how TAKRAF Group has transformed from a machine manufacturer into a provider of modern, digitalized, sustainable solutions.