Magirus marks 160th anniversary and founder’s 200th birthday in Ulm

Celebrations of Magirus’ historic milestones in Ulm

As reported by Magirus, the global manufacturer of firefighting equipment recently hosted a ceremony in Ulm, Germany, to commemorate its 160th anniversary.

The event took place on September 26, 2024, marking a dual celebration of the company’s founding and the 200th birthday of its visionary founder, Conrad Dietrich Magirus.

Magirus, who established the company in 1864, was a driving force in modernising fire protection.

The ceremony honoured his lifetime achievements, particularly his role in creating the Ulm Volunteer Fire Brigade and the German Fire Brigade Association.

The event also highlighted the rich history of the company, which began its journey in Ulm, the birthplace of Magirus in 1824.

Honouring the past and looking to the future

The anniversary event in Ulm was more than a celebration of history.

Magirus also used the occasion to look ahead at future developments.

Guests participated in a varied programme, which paid tribute to the company’s historical milestones while offering insights into its plans for upcoming innovations.

Under the theme “The Bulls are back,” Magirus recalled its legendary vehicle designs from the 1970s and 1980s.

Magirus CEO Thomas Hilse stated: “This day is more than just a tribute to the past.

“It is also an occasion to look to the future and to shape the coming chapters of our company history together with our customers, partners and employees.”

Support for the firefighting industry

The event also provided a platform to discuss the future of the firefighting industry and the challenges it faces.

Magirus CEO Thomas Hilse emphasised the need for greater political support to ensure the long-term profitability of the industry.

Hilse called for the introduction of a “price escalation clause” in public tenders to minimise inflation risks and urged customers to be more involved in production pre-financing due to the long production times of fire engines.

“These issues affect not only Magirus but the entire industry,” said Hilse, stressing the importance of rethinking the public sector’s role in procurement and funding.

Adapting to changing market needs

Magirus has responded to the evolving demands of the firefighting industry with several innovative products.

Marc Kuntz, Head of Sales and Customer Service at Magirus, noted that urbanisation and the construction of taller buildings have increased the need for more advanced firefighting equipment.

He said: “That’s why we are now looking forward to the first deliveries of our new SmartControl product generation.”

The company also addressed the growing demand for aircrash rescue and firefighting vehicles, showcasing the updated DRAGON NEO.

This vehicle now includes an automatic driving safety system and a new powerful Cursor 13 Euro6 engine, aligning with the needs brought on by the rise in post-pandemic travel.

Magirus marks 160th anniversary and founder’s 200th birthday in Ulm: Summary

Magirus recently hosted a commemorative event in Ulm, Germany, on September 26, 2024, celebrating both its 160th anniversary and the 200th birthday of its founder, Conrad Dietrich Magirus.

The ceremony honoured the company’s historical achievements while also presenting an outlook on its future innovations.

Magirus CEO Thomas Hilse highlighted the need for political support in the firefighting industry, calling for measures such as a “price escalation clause” in public tenders.

The company also showcased its new products, including the SmartControl turntable ladder and the updated DRAGON NEO, addressing the growing demands of the firefighting industry.