About Miba
Miba Group is one of Austria's leading industrial and technology companies. Founded in 1927 in Laakirchen, Upper Austria, Miba has continuously expanded and now operates 30 production sites in 11 countries around the world. Whether in cars, trucks, construction machinery, trains, ships, aircraft, or power plants, Miba products can be found and are widely used by leading global manufacturers in their respective fields. Miba focuses on sliding bearings (plain bearings), friction materials, powder metallurgy components, and high-tech coatings. In addition, Miba produces high‑power electrical components such as resistors and cooling systems for use in power transmission systems and other applications. At the same time, Miba develops and builds special processing machines for the production of large precision mechanical components. Miba employs nearly 7,400 people worldwide. In fiscal year 2021, the Group generated revenue of €971 million.
About Zollern
ZOLLERN was founded in 1708 by Prince Meinrad II of Hohenzollern‑Sigmaringen and is the oldest family‑owned company in Baden‑Württemberg, Germany. Today, this more than 300‑year‑old enterprise is still in the hands of the 11th generation of the Hohenzollern family, which founded the company. It has evolved from the original princely smelting works into an advanced metal processing group with deep technical expertise and a solid foundation.
ZOLLERN operates four business areas and nine product divisions, representing high‑quality innovative technologies and reliable services worldwide. It serves many industries, including the automotive industry, construction machinery, energy technology, marine industry, medical technology, and comminution technology.
Collaboration in Bearings between Miba and Zollern
Although both companies have long and independent histories, they achieved deep integration in the plain bearings business through the formation of a joint venture:
Joint Venture Background: On October 1, 2019, Miba AG and the Zollern Group officially launched a joint venture project in the bearings sector.
Integration Scope:
Miba contributed five of its engine bearing production plants, representing about 20% of its total Group revenue.
Zollern contributed one engine bearing plant and two industrial bearing plants.
Control and Objectives: The joint venture was led by Miba, which held a 74.9% stake. The collaboration aimed to combine the R&D and production strengths of both partners, establish a stronger position in global competition, and help develop new technologies in areas such as decarbonization and renewable energy.
Subsequent Development: After five years of joint operation, Miba announced in October 2024 that it had increased its ownership of the former Zollern bearing plants to 100%, meaning that this part of the business has been fully integrated into the Miba Group.