Cologne celebrates: 300 years of success story of a roller world champion!

Cologne celebrates: 300 years of success story of a roller world champion!

In Cologne-Braunsfeld there is a true gem of the industrial landscape: Felix Böttcher GmbH & Co. KG. At a celebration in the historic town hall, Mayor Henriette Reker honored the achievements of the company, which will celebrate its 300th anniversary in 2025. The managing directors Franz-Georg and Max Heggemann ceremoniously signed the city's guest book and emphasized the company's anchoring in Cologne tradition. But what makes the company so special?

Felix Böttcher GmbH is a typical example of a “hidden champion”. These companies are often little known, but achieve leadership positions in their niche markets. The Cologne rollers with elastomers supply an impressive 70% of the original equipment for printing machines worldwide. In addition, their products are also used in plastics, paper, metal and wood processing, which underlines the innovative strength and diversity of the product range. Another area is handrails for escalators and rubber compounds used in pharmaceuticals, medicine and sports, as [Sustainable Production](https://nachhafte-produktion.de/hidden-champions-der-deutschen-wirtschaft-unterschaetzte- Success stories/) explains.

A company with history

Felix Böttcher's roots go back to 1725, when Johannes Jacobus Lohsen founded the company. In the 18th century, the company switched from making glue to producing gelatin for printing rollers. In 1890 there was a merger with Felix Böttcher's factory in Leipzig. 1944 was a traumatic year for the Cologne site when it was completely destroyed by bombing raids, but the resurgence was not long in coming. This resilient skill is still evident in company management today. Max Heggemann highlights the advantages of Cologne as a location, including the concentrated chemical industry and the availability of well-trained specialists, which are crucial for ongoing success, while he also mentions challenges such as increased energy prices and bureaucracy.

The term “Hidden Champion” was coined by Hermann Simon in 1990 and describes companies that are international leaders in their niche and at the same time achieve annual sales of less than 5 billion euros. These companies are characterized by high specialization, innovative strength and a long-term corporate strategy. Felix Böttcher is no exception here: High investments in research and development ensure that the company remains competitive not only today but also in the future, as Credit Anstalt confirms.

Importance for the region and the economy

The importance of hidden champions for the German economy is enormous. They create jobs, promote training and contribute to the stability of medium-sized businesses. With their high export share, they strengthen Germany's trade balance and drive innovation processes. Felix Böttcher follows this trend: With around 2,000 employees in 38 countries and 27 production facilities, the company has a strong international presence and shows how important such companies are for the regional economy.

Mayor Reker described Felix Böttcher as the “flagship of Cologne as an industrial location”. The pride that the management and the city feel in this success story is obvious. At a time when many companies are struggling with challenges such as digitalization and a shortage of skilled workers, Felix Böttcher remains a shining example of innovation, adaptability and sustainable success.