Tradition that paves the way for innovation
Over 100 years ago, Heinrich Schulte I. decided to set up his own business and founded the company that bears his name to this day. In the early years, the focus was on birdcages, before the company’s core expertise in sanitary fittings began to develop shortly after. Following in his footsteps, both his son and grandson have carried on the business. Our history is shaped by craftsmanship and continuous development. Over the course of more than a century, this has resulted in expertise that today extends from product development and in-house manufacturing to surface finishing and quality assurance.
For heinrichschulte, therefore, tradition does not mean holding on to the status quo. It forms the foundation upon which new technologies, modern production processes and future-proof products are developed. On this basis, looking ahead shapes our day-to-day actions. As a family-run business, heinrichschulte combines time-honoured values with long-term and far-reaching responsibility. We shape progress with a focus on sustainability for our grandchildren.
The history of heinrichschulte
1921
Heinrich Schulte I. founded the company as it is known today in 1921. The first products were birdcages. Production was set up right next to the family home on the Aumes (Iserlohn, Germany).
1950
Mr. Heinrich Schulte with the office staff.
1950
The extension at the Aeumes in 1950 marked an important step in the site’s growth. In doing so, heinrichschulte remained true to its roots whilst at the same time laying the foundations for more efficient production.
1953
Following the extension and renovation work, the company now comprises several buildings surrounding the family home.
1956
These photographs from 1956 show the people behind the company. They feature colleagues from that time working in the foundry, soldering shop, electroplating shop, assembly and dispatch departments, as well as the office and the department heads in the sales department. With their craftsmanship, personal dedication and strong team spirit, they laid the foundations for the further development of heinrichschulte.
1957
In 1957, heinrichschulte exhibited at the Sanitary and Heating Technology Trade Fair in Düsseldorf. This participation demonstrates that the company sought to engage with the industry from an early stage and raised the profile of its products beyond its own premises.
1960
In 1960, craftsmanship and robust machinery characterised production at heinrichschulte. In the foundry, components were cast from molten metal and then precision-machined on the production line. Experience, attention to detail and the personal commitment of the staff formed the basis for durable fittings and reliable manufacturing quality.
1975
In 1975, the product range was significantly expanded. In addition to washbasin, bath, shower and kitchen taps, the focus also shifted to control elements for limiting water flow and temperature, as well as concealed solutions.
As a result, heinrichschulte evolved from a traditional tap manufacturer into a provider of sophisticated water technology. Visible design and invisible functionality were increasingly integrated – in front of the wall, behind the wall and in everyday use.
1990
Impressions from the SHK Essen trade fair in 1990.
1991
The 1991 Spring Fair in Leipzig was marked by the economic upheaval following German reunification. For heinrichschulte, it was a special opportunity, as a West German fittings manufacturer, to raise its profile in a newly opened market and to seek direct dialogue with specialist customers, the trade and new partners.
At that time, Leipzig was more than just a trade fair venue. The fair combined tradition, a spirit of renewal and reorientation – and thus became an important venue for encounters between East and West, for new business relationships and for the growing significance of the unified German markets.
1992
Our first show truck was built between September and December 1992. A fully-fledged exhibition area, complete with a separate meeting room, was set up inside the trailer. We took this mobile exhibition to the SHK Essen trade fair.
From 2004
In 2004, heinrichschulte became part of the de Gruyter/Stach Group. With this acquisition, the company was integrated into a strong, family-run business group.
For heinrichschulte, this move brings support, industrial breadth and new opportunities in development, manufacturing and market development. The brand retains its independent character whilst gaining strength through shared expertise.
2009
In 2009, the company’s vertical integration was further expanded through the acquisition of the former g.t.s. Galvanotechnik GmbH. Electroplating facilities, automatic grinding and polishing machines, and industrial surface treatment processes strengthened the company’s expertise in the finishing of fittings.
This step is a key component of our current production strength. After all, quality is not merely a result of the finished product, but is built into every stage of the process that influences the surface finish, function and durability.
2010
In 2010, an additional site was acquired in the Iserlohn-Sümmern industrial estate. With new space for warehousing, offices, staff rooms and modern production facilities, further scope for growth and long-term viability was created.
This expansion demonstrates that heinrichschulte consistently combines loyalty to its location with development. Investments in premises and production facilities continue to form the basis for quality, delivery reliability and industrial strength to this day.
2021
With the integration of Covello GmbH in 2021, another key element of vertical integration was added to the group. Grinding and polishing are crucial steps in achieving high-quality fittings surfaces.
In this way, heinrichschulte is strengthening its expertise in the areas where quality can be seen and felt. A surface is not merely a finishing touch, but an expression of precision, experience and care throughout the entire manufacturing process.
2022
2022 marks a technological milestone of great significance with the patent for a chromium(III)-based chrome plating process. Against the backdrop of European regulations on chromium(VI) compounds, this development exemplifies innovation and responsibility.
For heinrichschulte, this is not merely about a new process. It is about sustainable surfaces, safe processes and responsibility towards the people who work in production every day.
2022
The strategic investment in LUEG Drehtechnik GmbH has enabled us to significantly expand our vertical integration for heinrichschulte and the entire group. Furthermore, the company is located not far from our two plants in Iserlohn, which allows us to further concentrate our expertise.
2023
Also in 2023, a ‘Made in Germany’ hand shower production line was acquired and integrated into the factories. In doing so, heinrichschulte is reinforcing its commitment to further developing key product groups through its own German manufacturing operations.
This integration not only expands the product range but also enhances industrial expertise. From components to the finished product, it provides greater control over quality, functionality and suitability for everyday use.
2024
In 2024, the integration of NIL’s grinding and polishing equipment marked a further step towards consolidating expertise in surface finishing. Equipment, experience and process knowledge were brought together, strengthening the industrial base. For heinrichschulte, this means added assurance of consistent quality in high-quality surfaces. Particularly in the case of fittings, this precision determines the feel, appearance and durability of the product.
2025
The new flush-mounted box was launched in 2025. It embodies modern bathroom design, reliable technical installation and sophisticated plumbing technology concealed behind the wall. The flush-mounted box demonstrates that innovation often begins where it is no longer visible later on. Its compact design, flexible application and reliable technology combine to create a solution that offers greater comfort and control.
2025
With its new ‘Made in Germany’ shower collection, heinrichschulte sent a clear signal in 2025 regarding its product range expertise, underpinned by in-house manufacturing. The new products combine comfort, practicality and quality with German manufacturing expertise.
The shower range thus serves as further evidence of the brand’s strategic direction. heinrichschulte not only continues to develop individual products, but also consistently expands its areas of expertise.
2026
In 2026, the new electroplating facility was commissioned and is set to become the technological hub for the entire group. It creates synergies, strengthens expertise in surface treatment and combines automation, process reliability and modern manufacturing.
The launch demonstrates how consistently heinrichschulte invests in German production. Experience, technology and vertical integration combine to create a locational advantage that safeguards quality in the long term.
Mai 2026
In May 2026, heinrichschulte received the DVGW Certificate of Conformity for Hygiene under System 1+. For products that come into contact with drinking water, this is a particularly important certification, as it is not only functionality and quality that count here, but also the hygienic suitability of the materials and components used.
System 1+ stands for a particularly robust certificate of conformity, involving external assessment and third-party monitoring. For heinrichschulte, this certification is further proof that responsibility for water technology begins right from the stage of material selection, the manufacturing process and drinking water hygiene.
Vision 2035 – A future built on our own strengths
As a family-run business, we are consistently expanding our production in Germany – through long-term investment, skilled staff and a commitment to future generations.
Our vision extends beyond the year 2035. heinrichschulte embraces development across generations and is committed to strengthening and further expanding German manufacturing in the long term. Substantial investment in modern production facilities, surface treatment technology, quality assurance and high-performance sites lays the foundation for retaining core expertise within our own company and securing jobs in Germany for the long term.
Technical progress and the experience of our staff are inextricably linked. Through apprenticeships, continuous professional development and the transfer of specialist knowledge, we create opportunities for young people and develop existing skills in a targeted manner. Modern systems for documentation, production planning, master data and digital building models support transparent workflows, precise decision-making and continuous process optimisation. People remain the decisive factor in quality, development and responsible manufacturing.
Environmental requirements are also consistently integrated into further development. Investment in modern surface treatment technology, more efficient processes and reliable environmental data are key components. By developing Environmental Product Declarations – EPDs for short – heinrichschulte provides additional transparency regarding the environmental impact of its products and supports well-informed planning for sustainable buildings.
For heinrichschulte, acting sustainably for our grandchildren means combining economic stability, environmental responsibility and social security. With optimism, a willingness to invest and confidence in our own team, we are continuing to develop our family business – for high-quality products ‘Made in Germany’ and a future that offers reliable prospects for generations to come.
