Blending Tradition, Precision, and Customer-Centric Solutions

SUHNER
Written by Vicki Damon

For over a century, SUHNER has been a leader in metal processing solutions, continuously evolving to meet the demands of an ever-changing industry. Founded in Switzerland in 1914, the company has grown into a global force with expertise spanning drive technology, automation, machining, and surface treatment. From concept development to final delivery, SUHNER ensures that customers receive tailored solutions that optimize costs and enhance productivity.

SUHNER is a family-owned business now in its fifth generation, a rarity in today’s fast-paced corporate world. With manufacturing facilities in Switzerland, Germany, Italy, China, and the United States, the company maintains a strong global presence while staying true to its core values.

“SUHNER prides itself on being a custom solution provider,” says Ben Davis, SUHNER’s Marketing Manager. “We don’t offer cookie-cutter products. Instead, we work closely with our customers to develop tailored solutions that ensure their success, which in turn ensures ours.”

This customer-first approach has driven SUHNER’s success, allowing the company to build long-term partnerships across industries including automotive, aerospace, industrial manufacturing, and medical technology. The team’s ability to adapt to industry-specific challenges and innovate accordingly has kept it at the forefront of technological advancements.

“Our commitment to innovation is about more than just keeping up with industry trends; it’s about setting them,” Davis adds. “We strive to be the company that others look to when they need cutting-edge solutions.”

SUHNER provides a broad range of advanced metalworking solutions, including grinding and surface treatment, machining technologies, automated manufacturing, and high-quality components such as flex shaft technology, spiral bevel gears, 3D printing, and OEM motor solutions.

Mechanical Engineer Juan Martinez highlights SUHNER’s Electric Force Compliance modular, or EFCm-02 system, as a recent breakthrough. “With the EFCm-02 system, we’ve created a package for grinding, sanding, and polishing that is completely modular,” he explains. “It reduces costs and simplifies programming, making it easier for manufacturers to integrate into their existing workflows.”

This modularity means customers can adapt the system to meet their specific production needs, reducing downtime and increasing efficiency. It also allows SUHNER to provide a more sustainable approach by minimizing material waste and optimizing resource use.

Another key innovation is the company’s drive technology solutions, which are integral to various industrial applications. These high-precision components ensure superior performance, durability, and adaptability across different manufacturing environments. “Our drive technology is one of the most reliable in the industry,” Martinez notes. “It plays a crucial role in automation and smart manufacturing.”

Additionally, the company has been investing in digital tools to enhance its solutions. “We are integrating Smart Technology with 4G capabilities,” Martinez continues. “These technologies allow for smarter preventative maintenance and more efficient production cycles, giving our customers an edge in their industries.”

Beyond manufacturing, SUHNER distinguishes itself with exceptional after-sales service. “We don’t just sell a product and walk away,” says Martinez. “We offer U.S.-based repair services and ongoing technical support. If a customer needs help integrating our equipment or optimizing their production line, we connect them with our vast network of global integrators.”

This dedication extends to training programs and digital tools that ensure customers get the most from their investment. “We have an application center where customers can experience our technology firsthand,” Davis explains. “We offer practical demonstrations, personal training, and digital resources that make information accessible in today’s fast-paced digital environment.”

Additionally, SUHNER leverages data analytics to provide preventative maintenance, helping customers avoid costly downtime. “We use data to anticipate potential issues before they become major problems,” says Davis. “This proactive approach helps our clients maintain efficiency and productivity.”

Indeed, the company aims to go beyond being just a supplier by building lasting partnerships with its customers. Through continuous support, training programs, and digital tools, the company ensures that clients can fully leverage its solutions for maximum efficiency and success.

Even with over a century of experience, SUHNER faces the challenges of modern manufacturing, and one of the key obstacles has been overcoming siloed operations. With a diverse range of products and divisions, there was a tendency for teams to work independently rather than collaboratively. To address this, SUHNER has focused on fostering a more cooperative approach across its operations.

“We’ve realigned our marketing and sales teams, so they support one another,” says Davis. “By breaking down these silos, we’ve created a stronger, more cohesive company that better serves our customers.”

Another significant challenge has been keeping up with the rapid evolution of automation and digital transformation. “Industry 4.0 is changing the game,” says Martinez. “Smart factories, AI-driven production lines, and IoT-enabled machinery are reshaping the landscape. SUHNER is aware and strategically implementing and supporting our customers in these technologies to stay ahead of the curve.”

A commitment to sustainability is also a key focus. “Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for us,” Davis emphasizes. “We’re looking at ways to reduce our carbon footprint, improve energy efficiency, and develop eco-friendly solutions. Our customers expect it, and it’s the right thing to do.”

In an industry with strong competition, SUHNER’s holistic approach sets it apart. Unlike companies that focus on a single product line, SUHNER offers a diverse range of solutions across multiple industries. “We have experience in so many different markets, and that breadth of knowledge gives us an edge,” Davis says. “Our competitors might have great products, but they often specialize in one area; we provide depth, variety, and the ability to customize solutions to meet customer needs.”

The company’s ability to integrate automation into its solutions further strengthens its competitive position. By offering turnkey automation systems alongside its core products, the company helps manufacturers streamline their processes and increase efficiency. “Automation is the future,” says Martinez. “By combining our expertise in machining, drive technology, material removal, and automation, we create solutions that offer long-term value.”

The team’s emphasis on collaboration and strategic partnerships only further enhances its competitive edge. “We don’t just work for our customers, we work with them,” Davis stresses. “This collaborative approach leads to more innovative and effective solutions.”

Looking ahead, SUHNER continues to prioritize automation, innovation, and expansion. With available land at its Rome, Georgia facility, this company is prepared to scale operations as customer needs evolve. “We are ready to grow alongside our customers,” Davis affirms. “Our success is tied to theirs, and that’s what drives us every day.”

As technology advances and industries evolve, SUHNER remains committed to delivering high-quality, custom-engineered solutions that keep manufacturers competitive. “We’re investing in research and development, forming strategic partnerships, and staying ahead of the curve,” says Martinez.

One of the most exciting prospects for SUHNER is the rise of smart manufacturing and AI-driven production. “The integration of AI and machine learning into manufacturing is a game-changer,” Davis says. “We’re actively exploring ways to incorporate these technologies into our solutions to help customers achieve higher levels of efficiency.”

Yet, as the company moves forward, its core values remain unchanged. SUHNER’s commitment to quality, innovation, and customer success continues to be the foundation of its growth. “For us, it’s about more than just business,” Davis concludes. “It’s about creating lasting partnerships, solving real-world problems, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in manufacturing.”

With a legacy built on customer trust, innovation, and adaptability, SUHNER is poised for continued success in the years to come. By blending tradition with cutting-edge technology, the company is securing its place as a global leader in metal processing solutions for generations to come.

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