13. Jun 2024

Strengthening battery technology "made in the real North": State supports million-euro investment of Schenefeld machine manufacturer Fritz Gradert

With nearly 560,000 euros, the state is supporting an innovation of the Schenefeld family business Fritz Gradert Maschinenbau GmbH.

Strengthening battery technology "made in the real North": State supports million-euro investment of Schenefeld machine manufacturer Fritz Gradert

 

The company, which has 180 employees, is planning the development of a new roller technology – the so-called calendering technology – for the production of battery films as a component of an efficient production facility. "With this investment of 1.6 million euros, the company not only strengthens its market position but also its role as a reliable employer and innovation driver in the region," said Economic Minister Claus Ruhe Madsen today (February 28) at the handover of the grant notification to the owners Fritz and Marc Gradert. By developing and constructing a calender line, the company is also making a significant contribution to the energy transition.

As the minister further stated, new production methods in the field of battery technology are crucial for moving away from fossil fuels. "They serve the integration of renewable energies into the power grid, the electrification of the transportation sector, and the creation of energy-efficient industrial processes," Madsen said. The grant money comes from state and federal funds.

As company head Fritz Gradert explained, the company is currently well-utilized and serves various mechanical engineering sectors worldwide. The only problems – as in the entire industry – are the shortage of skilled workers and high energy costs. "In particular, the increased grid fees for electricity supply and their unequal regional distribution across the country pose a significant competitive disadvantage for us," said Gradert. The company, originally specializing in precision rollers, was founded by him in 1971. Starting with 70 square meters of production space, the company has continuously grown over the last 50 years and today produces in Schenefeld on over 12,000 square meters.