With a turnover of just under 56 million euros, Karl-Heinz Arnold GmbH almost reached pre-crisis levels again in 2022. Seven per cent growth ensured the second-highest turnover in the company's history after 2018. Nevertheless, the family business remains cautious, as part of the increase is due to the unavoidable passing on of increased costs. In addition, the high delivery capacity enabled the company, known as ARNO Werkzeuge, to get back on track for growth. The management is aiming for more substantial growth in 2023. Further investments will also ensure this.

"We are pleased with the growth and turnover we achieved in 2022, but we are still just below the pre-crisis level. The aim now is to grow substantially again in the future," reports Simon Storf, one of the Managing Directors at ARNO Werkzeuge. Last year, ARNO Werkzeuge grew by seven per cent and, with an annual turnover of 55.9 million, achieved the second-highest figure in the company's history. The family-run company is thus continuing the positive trend of recent years. However, as part of the growth is based on moderate price increases due to the passing on of higher energy and material costs, the result, which is traditionally not disclosed, has not risen to the same extent.

From product manufacturer to solution provider

ARNO  Werkzeuge generated 61 per cent of its turnover in Germany. Of the 39 per cent foreign turnover, around 80 per cent is attributable to the EU, with a focus on the UK, Italy and Austria. Outside Europe, the USA and South East Asia with Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam were the largest sales markets. The strong growth in the USA in particular shows that the work of the branch office there is paying off very well. Another factor responsible for the company's overall development in 2022 was the high delivery capacity of almost 95% of all parts ordered. The expansion of the warehouse and the high level of vertical integration contributed to this.

The machining tool experts are consistently moving from being a manufacturer and product supplier to a solution provider with a high level of consulting expertise. This is demonstrated by the many enquiries in the field of Swiss-type turning and parting off and the automation of several processes, including their interlinking. "Customers are no longer just asking for the right tools, but are increasingly showing us an end product and asking for the best possible production methods and processes," emphasises Storf. "This confirms our strategy of always being close to our customers on site with the best possible and highly qualified application consultants." At the end of the year, the family business employed 230 people.

Order situation and investment plan inspire confidence

In 2022, the company continued to invest in training capacity for apprentices. The management is cautiously optimistic for the new year. The order situation gives cause for hope. Investments in additional machines, digitalisation and automation as well as in a new ERP system show confidence. In addition, new employees will further strengthen sales and production. The aim is to further increase turnover in 2023 with substantial, healthy growth.