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From cigars to sealing solutions

As KLINGER Denmark celebrated its 175th anniversary in 2023, the narrative arc of this venerable company takes us from the quaint beginnings of a cigar shop on the bustling streets of Copenhagen to its current status as an industrial cornerstone.

December 5, 2024

It was in 1848 that the young entrepreneur Meir Baruch Cohn (M.B. Cohn) laid the foundations of what would become a beacon in the industrial landscape of Denmark. “Starting as a humble cigar shop and evolving into an industrial powerhouse is a testament to the innovative spirit that has always been at the core of KLINGER Denmark,” reflects Ivar Madsen, Managing Director.

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The Evolution of Products

Over the years, KLINGER Denmark has offered a diverse range of products, which includes:

  • 1848: Hand-rolled Havana cigars – The beginning of a legacy.
  • Late 1800s: Provisions for naval fleets – Expanding beyond cigars to meet the needs of maritime customers.
  • 1950s: Transition to the marine industry – Adapting to post-war industrial shifts.
  • Late 1970s: Specialized valves for Oil & Gas – Diversifying products to cater to the booming energy sector with materials like Titanium and Super-duplex.
  • Modern Era: High-performance butterfly valves – Leading in LNG, LPG, chemicals, and critical industrial applications.
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The foundation of KLINGER Denmark today was laid with hand-rolled cigars.
Visit KLINGER Denmark

Embracing Change

Though founded on Strรธget in Copenhagen, a move to Toldboden, closer to the bustling docks, marked the beginning of an era where KLINGER Denmark became indispensable to the maritime. Also, later the entry into the oil and gas sector illustrates the company’s agility. Allan Preisler, Key Customer Manager at KLINGER Denmark reflecting on the company’s evolution, says

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“Our ability to adapt and thrive in changing markets has been key. The inclusion of high-performance materials like Titanium and Super-duplex in our valves for demanding services is a perfect example”.

Allan Preisler, Key Customer Manager at KLINGER Denmark, is with the company for 43 years.

A New Chapter

It was more than just a name change; it was a renewal of the company’s commitment to excellence and innovation. This transition was marked by significant expansions, including the move to Brรธndby. As KLINGER Denmark celebrates this milestone, the stories of its past, from the provision of accruals to the Russian Tsar’s fleet to the pioneering of asbestos-free gasket materials, are not just historical footnotes but stepping stones that have shaped its present. “Each chapter in our history reflects a step forward, not just for us but for the industries we serve,” Ivar Madsen adds.

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Early documents from M.B. Cohnโ€™s quaint beginnings

The acquisition by the KLINGER Group in 1990 marked a significant milestone, introducing a new chapter of growth and innovation. Christoph Klinger-Lohr, CEO of the KLINGER Group, remarks, โ€œIntegrating KLINGER Denmark into our fold was a strategic move that has fortified our position in the global market. Their 175-year journey is not just their legacy; it’s now an integral part of ours. โ€

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Gratitude and vision

Allan, a stalwart of the company with over four decades of service, shares his affection for the company and its products. โ€œIโ€™ve seen tremendous change, but the essence of what we do and why we do it remains the same. I love our products, our customers, and the rich history Iโ€™ve been a part of,โ€ he says with evident pride. Ivar adds, โ€œOur past is the bedrock of our present, and as we look to the future, we remain committed to innovation, quality, and sustainability. Hereโ€™s to continuing the journey with the same spirit and dedication that have brought us this far.โ€

The 175th anniversary celebrations of KLINGER Denmark were a heartwarming blend of nostalgia and camaraderie, encapsulating the companyโ€™s storied journey and its vibrant future. On December 8, 2023, employees and stakeholders gathered in a festive atmosphere, reminiscing about the past while looking ahead to new horizons. Highlights included a spirited tour of Carlsberg, symbolizing deep-rooted connections and shared heritage. The day culminated in an elegant party in the evening, where laughter and stories flowed as freely as the spirit of gratitude and unity, making it a true celebration of a milestone in KLINGER Denmarkโ€™s remarkable odyssey.

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2023 – Celebrating milestones

As we flip through the pages of history, the 2023 anniversaries of several KLINGER companies stand out as beacons of progress, innovation, and enduring commitment. Each anniversary tells a unique story of growth, challenges, and triumphs.

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