Eighty years of company history are more than just a number. They are a symbol of courage, transformation and a steadfast determination to continue growing. What began in 1946 as a small craft business under the name Riegler is now an internationally active company that uses state-of-the-art technologies to make a significant contribution to people’s health worldwide.
On April 1, 1946, Fritz Albert Riegler laid the foundation for this success story by manufacturing press tools, at a time marked by uncertainty and deprivation. Yet it was precisely under these difficult conditions that the qualities which continue to define the company today became evident: entrepreneurial spirit, perseverance, and a forward-looking vision
Starting in 1949, the company began manufacturing products for the hair care industry using hand-operated machines. In the years that followed, the product portfolio continued to expand, ranging from applications for the cosmetics industry to the food and personal care industries. At the same time, the company invested early in new technologies, machinery, and manufacturing processes, thereby laying the foundation for sustainable growth.
From its early years, the company based in Mühltal established itself as a reliable partner for customized solutions, thereby laying the foundation for its current role as an established systems supplier.
The breakthrough: From plastic processor to medical technology expert
The 1970s marked the beginning of a period of strong growth: the company built new facilities, expanded its production capacity in injection molding and extrusion blow molding, and adopted modern technologies. However, the decisive turning point came in the early 1990s. By entering the medical technology sector and launching cleanroom production, the company set the course for its future direction. The first products were packaging trays and cleaning systems for contact lenses, as well as development projects for dentistry.
At the same time, the company successfully entered the diagnostics industry by developing and producing bottles, closures, and other primary packaging materials for a globally successful line of analytical instruments. This product line remains a rapidly growing segment to this day. The path the company chose paid off and took it to a whole new level.
New structures, new strength
In 2005, the sale to the family-owned Wirthwein SE marked another milestone. Integration into this internationally active group of companies opened up new opportunities for growth, investment, and technological advancement.
In the years that followed, the company strategically expanded its manufacturing capacity, developed new locations, and consistently advanced its digitalization efforts. In particular, the expansion of cleanroom capacity laid the foundation for meeting the growing demands of global customers.
The year 2020 marked a significant milestone in the company’s history: After more than seven decades, the brand name “Riegler” was no longer in use, and the company has since been operating under the name Wirthwein Medical GmbH & Co. KG. This new name reflects the company’s growing international focus while building on a strong tradition.
Innovation as a driver of growth
Recent years have clearly demonstrated how consistently the company is pursuing its innovation strategy by, for example, expanding its cleanroom capacity, investing in new manufacturing technologies, and continuously digitizing and fully automating its processes.
The launch of its own product, WIM Ject®, a pre-fillable syringe, marks another milestone for Wirthwein Medical. In addition to contract manufacturing, the company is thus establishing a second pillar of business with its own innovative system solutions. With a facility in Turkey, the medical division’s international focus is also being further advanced. The expanded cleanroom production facility is scheduled to begin operations in the fall of 2026.
Success is a team effortm
Despite all technological advancements, one thing remains constant: success is built on the people within the company. Commitment, experience, and a strong sense of belonging continue to shape our corporate culture to this day. We have always placed a high priority on training our own skilled workforce. Many employees began their careers with the company and have remained loyal throughout the decades. Seniority of 25, 40, or even 50 years is nothing exceptional.
Focused on tomorrow
Nowadays, Wirthwein Medical produces around 10 million plastic components and systems. Made with innovative technologies and processes, they can be found all over the world in the diagnostics, medical technology, and pharmaceuticals industries.
“80 years of Wirthwein Medical stand for entrepreneurial courage, innovative strength, and above all for the people who made this journey possible. We are proud of what we have achieved together with our customers. With innovative technologies, new customer projects, and the consistent implementation of our strategy, we aim to continue making a valuable contribution to global health in the future.” Dr. Thomas Jakob, Managing Director of Wirthwein Medical GmbH & Co. KG.