FRAI merges with WFL Millturn Technologies

To ensure even more efficient and faster collaboration in the future and to strengthen the turnkey approach, FRAI Elektromaschinenbau GmbH was merged into WFL Millturn Technologies GmbH & Co. KG. WFL customers benefit from this integration in several ways. Not only will they gain access to a broader range of solutions, but they can also benefit from a more seamless integration of machines and automation. Strengthened by the merger, the WFL Automation Technologies division will continue to offer solutions for the automation of a wide range of machine tools and processes. In short, one point of contact.

Automation solutions were and are a constant companion when purchasing MILLTURN complete machining centers. "The integration is a decisive step on the way to becoming a comprehensive turnkey provider and a strong signal of our ambition to further expand our technological leadership. WFL has set itself the goal of actively shaping the future of manufacturing by developing intelligent, networked, and efficient AI-based solutions. This merger is an important building block in this strategy and is proof of WFL's commitment to driving innovation and always offering its customers the best solutions," the management team agreed with CEO Norbert Jungreithmayr, CTO Günther Mayr, CFO Stefan Hackl, and COO Franz Schön.

Since its foundation in 1984, FRAI has established itself as an innovative supplier in the automation industry. The integration into WFL enables FRAI to make its technologies available to a broader market and to take on new challenges. "The merger of the companies represents more than just a business transaction. It is a strategic partnership that combines the best of both worlds," emphasizes Franz Plasonig, former Managing Director of FRAI and now Vice President Automation and authorized signatory at WFL. WFL brings decades of expertise in the field of mechanical engineering and machining technology, while FRAI supplies state-of-the-art automation solutions. By joining forces, the companies can offer comprehensive and customized solutions for their customers that meet the requirements of Industry 4.0.

In 2018, WFL acquired 100% of the shares in FRAI with the aim of successfully developing FRAI's original business areas (contract manufacturing, automation solutions, and service) at the St. Konrad site and, as WFL with FRAI, being able to increasingly operate on the market as a turnkey provider of automated MILLTURNs.

Thanks to the collaboration between FRAI and WFL, it has not only been possible to realize WLF turnkey projects since 2019, but FRAI has now been able to offer original business globally. The growing success and strategic importance of WFL and FRAI as turnkey providers in recent years is impressive, with demand rising from 10% per year in 2022 and 2023 to over 30% this year.