While the long-established company was still on track until the summer, this was followed by a real slump from September onwards and a reluctance to buy that affected the entire industry. However, because the innovative products in the growth areas of automation, process optimization and additive manufacturing nevertheless recorded a significant increase, the management is optimistic about the future. Further investments in in-house production, digitalization and employee training are expected to reverse the trend in 2020.

"After six record sales in a row, it's not surprising that things couldn't go on like this forever given the difficult global political situation with trade conflicts, Brexit and general uncertainty," says Johannes Maier, Managing Partner of Andreas Maier GmbH & Co. With annual sales of 47.3 million euros, the market leader for clamping, screwing and fastening recorded a decline of almost 5.5 percent in 2019 compared to the previous year.

Maier sees the main reasons for this in a general reluctance to place orders in the fourth quarter due to the uncertainties in all markets. "Companies are planning very cautiously and for ever shorter periods of time, but this can just as quickly tip in the other direction." This is also shown by the many contacts and discussions that took place at the EMO trade fair in September. "That was far more than we have ever registered," says Maier. This is why he and his company want to remain flexible and be able to react quickly.

Confidence for 2020

Those responsible see reason for optimism in the continued strong growth of products for automated production and additive manufacturing. With the "Zero-Point" zero-point clamping system, AMF wireless sensors and the new gripper presented in 2019, AMF has competitive solutions for automation on the machine table.

Another innovative product was added in 2019 with a new loading system. This allows AMF to automate the path of the workpieces to the machine and support unmanned production. An important aspect in times of a shortage of skilled workers.

AMF continues to see growth opportunities in the field of automation in Germany and Europe. In terms of international markets, sales activities will focus on Asia with India, the USA and Eastern Europe. Investments are again planned in in-house production in 2020. Machines will be modernized, digitalization will be further advanced and employee qualifications will be strengthened. AMF also intends to maintain its training quota of ten percent of employees. "With optimism, courage and strategy, we want to get back on track for growth," concludes Maier.