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.
Contacts mentioned in the article:
Christoph Klinger-Lohr, CEO of KLINGER Group
Ivar Madsen, Managing Director of KLINGER Denmark
Allan Preisler, Key Account Manager at KLINGER Denmark
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.
Embracing Change
Though founded on Strøget 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
“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 Brøndby. 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.
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, “Integrating 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. ”
Gratitude and vision
Allan, a stalwart of the company with over four decades of service, shares his affection for the company and its products. “I’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 I’ve been a part of,” he says with evident pride. Ivar adds, “Our past is the bedrock of our present, and as we look to the future, we remain committed to innovation, quality, and sustainability. Here’s to continuing the journey with the same spirit and dedication that have brought us this far.”
The 175th anniversary celebrations of KLINGER Denmark were a heartwarming blend of nostalgia and camaraderie, encapsulating the company’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 Denmark’s remarkable odyssey.
