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2024-05-17 12:46:18

ThyssenKrupp

German industrial conglomerate
German industrial conglomerate

ThyssenKrupp is a multinational conglomerate formed in 1999 from the merger of Thyssen AG and Krupp. It is a major steel producer and operates in various sectors including machinery, trains, elevators, and shipbuilding. The company has over 670 subsidiaries worldwide.

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1760
August Thyssen-Hütte-AG Acquires Stake in Rasselstein Steel and Rolling Mill

August Thyssen-Hütte-AG acquires a stake in the Rasselstein Steel and Rolling Mill, which was founded in 1760, giving Thyssen access to the market for surface-finished blackplate.

1811-11-20
Foundation of the cast steel factory by Friedrich Krupp

Friedrich Krupp established a company on November 20, 1811, to produce cast steel according to English quality standards.

1826
Friedrich Krupp passes away

Friedrich Krupp dies in 1826, leaving his widow Therese to continue managing the company until 1848.

1842-05-17
Birth of August Thyssen

August Thyssen is born on May 17, 1842 in Eschweiler near Aachen to a wealthy catholic family of entrepreneurs. He receives a good technical and commercial education and goes on to establish Thyssen & Co, an iron strip rolling mill in Styrum near Mülheim an der Ruhr.

1847
Expansion of the railroads increases demand for durable cast steel

In 1847, the expansion of railroads led to a higher need for strong cast steel products such as axles, springs, and seamless tires that could withstand high speeds without breaking. This surge in demand marked a significant period of growth for the company.

1848
Alfred Krupp becomes sole proprietor of the company

In 1848, Alfred Krupp takes over as the sole proprietor of the company, marking a significant point in the company's history.

1850
Invention of steel casting by Jacob Mayer

Jacob Mayer, co-founder of the Bochum Association of Mining and Cast Steel Fabrication, invented steel casting, allowing products to be created from liquid steel in their final shape.

1852
Invention of the seamless railroad tire by Krupp

In 1852, Krupp invented the seamless forged and rolled railroad tire, a groundbreaking invention that became a worldwide bestseller and contributed to the mobility revolution.

1859
Prussian military orders 300 gun barrels from Krupp

In 1859, the Prussian military placed an order for 300 gun barrels from Krupp, which signaled the company's entry into the production of artillery. This marked a major development in Krupp's production capabilities.

1861
Establishment of thyssenkrupp rothe erde

The company's history began with the founding of thyssenkrupp rothe erde in 1861.

1862
Construction of the first Bessemer steel plant on the continent

In 1862, the first Bessemer steel plant was constructed on the continent, enabling mass production of rails and steel sheets. This technological advancement revolutionized the steel industry.

1867
Establishment of Thyssen, Fossoul & Co. for hoop iron production

In 1867, Thyssen, Fossoul & Co. was established as a company specializing in the production of hoop iron used for barrels, crates, and baling. This marked the beginning of Thyssen's presence in the iron industry.

1871
Establishment of Thyssen & Company

In 1871, August Thyssen establishes Thyssen & Company, an iron strip rolling mill, with his father in Mülheim/Ruhr. This marks the beginning of the Thyssen industrial empire.

1872
Alfred Krupp issues a 'General Directive' for company hierarchy and welfare programs

In 1872, Alfred Krupp issued a 'General Directive' that established the company hierarchy and introduced various welfare programs for employees, including pension funds, insurance benefits, worker housing estates, and health care. These initiatives aimed to improve the well-being of the workforce.

1873-11-09
Birth of Fritz Thyssen

Fritz Thyssen, the eldest son of August Thyssen and Hedwig Pelzer, is born on November 9, 1873. He later becomes involved in the management of the Thyssen iron and steel mill, modernizing and rationalizing the operations.

1887
Alfred Krupp passes away

Alfred Krupp, the talented businessman who led the company to growth, dies in 1887.

1891
Formation of the Thyssen Group

August Thyssen acquires all shares of the Gewerkschaft Deutscher Kaiser trade union in Bruckhausen near (Duisburg-)Hamborn, leading to the expansion of the trade union into a metallurgical plant with its own coal base. The foundation of the Thyssen Group is marked by the first steel tapping in the Siemens-Martin steelworks.

1892
Incorporation of Gruson Works in Magdeburg

In 1892, Friedrich Alfred Krupp incorporates the Gruson Works in Magdeburg, laying the foundation stone for Krupp plant construction.

1893
Friedrich Alfred Krupp expands company after Alfred Krupp's death

In 1893, Friedrich Alfred Krupp expanded his father's enterprise following Alfred Krupp's death in 1887. The expansion included takeovers of steel mills and shipyards, as well as collaboration in diesel engine production with Rudolf Diesel, marking a new phase of growth for the company.

1895
Thyssen's Integrated Iron and Steel Mill

Thyssen establishes an integrated iron and steel mill with the construction of a blast furnace plant at the Gewerkschaft Deutscher Kaiser, marking the beginning of vertical integration for the group.

1896
Takeover of Germania shipyard in Kiel

In 1896, Friedrich Alfred Krupp takes over the Germania shipyard in Kiel, expanding the company's access to shipbuilding.

1897
Expansion of pig iron and steel base with metallurgical plant in Rheinhausen

In 1897, Friedrich Alfred Krupp expands the pig iron and steel base of the Group with the integrated metallurgical plant in Rheinhausen.

1899
Expansion of Coal Business

Various coal mines including Hannibal colliery near Bochum and the Emscher-Lippe coal mine near Datteln are acquired or invested in, leading to a focus on vertical structures and the expansion of a coal base.

1900
Marriage of Fritz Thyssen to Amélie Zurhelle

Against his father's wishes, Fritz Thyssen marries Amélie Zurhelle, daughter of a factory owner from Mülheim am Rhein, in 1900. They have a daughter named Anita in 1909.

1902
Foundation of Aktiengesellschaft für Hüttenbetrieb

In 1902, August Thyssen establishes the Aktiengesellschaft für Hüttenbetrieb in Duisburg-Meiderich to cover the pig iron requirements of his steelworks, later transformed into a landscape park.

1903
Friedrich Alfred Krupp's Death and Company Inheritance

Friedrich Alfred Krupp passes away suddenly in 1902, leading to his eldest daughter Bertha Krupp inheriting the company. The company is converted into a stock corporation with Bertha's mother, Margarethe Krupp, taking over as the head of the company.

1906
Bertha Krupp's Marriage and Company Leadership

Bertha Krupp marries Gustav von Bohlen und Halbach, who becomes vice-chairman of the board and later serves as chairman. The company undergoes significant leadership changes.

1907
Hoesch acquires plant in Hohenlimburg

In 1907, Hoesch acquires the plant in Hohenlimburg.

1910
Expansion of Thyssen Mills

Thyssen expands its operations with mills in the Lorraine and Normandy regions, further strengthening its presence in the iron and steel industry.

1912
Development of Stainless Steel

Stainless, acid-resistant steels are developed and find applications in various industries including chemical, food processing, medicine, and building. The Chrysler Building in New York features the new stainless steel panels.

1913
Foundation of Deutsch-Überseeische Handelsgesellschaft

The German Overseas Trading Company is established with a focus on Latin America. Thyssen builds housing estates and infrastructure in the western Ruhr area to attract workers, owning 8,750 housing units by the end of the year.

1914
Gewerkschaft Deutscher Kaiser begins armaments production

Gewerkschaft Deutscher Kaiser starts manufacturing armaments for the First World War, employing women, Belgian civilians, and prisoners of war to address labor shortages.

1917
Development of the Paris Gun

The 'Paris Gun' is developed with an impressive range of 130 km (80 mi), showcasing advancements in artillery technology during World War I.

1919
Renaming of Gewerkschaft Deutscher Kaiser to August Thyssen-Hütte

In 1919, the company Gewerkschaft Deutscher Kaiser was renamed to August Thyssen-Hütte. Additionally, Gewerkschaft and mining operations were transferred to an independent company, Gewerkschaft Friedrich Thyssen.

1921
Establishment of Tinplate Plant in Andernach

The tinplate plant in Andernach started production in 1921.

1926-04-04
Death of August Thyssen

August Thyssen passes away on April 4, 1926 at Schloss Landsberg near Essen. He was known for perfecting the concept of the vertically integrated corporation and expanding his industrial empire internationally.

1933
The period of National Socialism

During the era of National Socialism, there was war destruction and dismantling of August Thyssen-Hütte, showcasing the impact of political changes on industrial operations.

1934
Spin-off of August Thyssen-Hütte AG from Vereinigte Stahlwerke AG

In 1934, the company August Thyssen-Hütte AG was spun off from Vereinigte Stahlwerke AG as an operating company. This move aimed to reorganize the structure of the Thyssen group.

1939
Fritz Thyssen Flees to Switzerland

Fritz Thyssen, chairman of the Board of Vereingte Stahlwerke AG, escapes to Switzerland following the invasion of Poland. He and his wife are later handed over to the German Reich by Vichy France in 1940.

1945
Thyssenhütte Mill in Hamborn Occupied by US Troops

The Thyssenhütte mill in Hamborn is seized by US troops in 1945.

1947
Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza passes away

Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza, who was successful in business and renowned as an art collector, dies in 1947.

1949
Founding of Karl Jüngel GmbH & Co. KG

In 1949, the family company Karl Jüngel GmbH & Co. KG was founded in Cologne-Mülheim, which later evolved into one of Germany's first service centers.

1953
Re-establishment of August Thyssen-Hütte AG

In 1953, August Thyssen-Hütte AG is re-established after being removed from the Vereinigte Stahlwerke AG Group as part of the breakup of the West German coal, iron and steel industry.

1955-07-11
Official Commissioning of Hot Strip Mill at August Thyssen-Hütte AG

Chancellor Konrad Adenauer's presence at the event ensures extensive coverage in the media. The hot strip mill marks a significant development in the post-World War II industrial landscape of Germany, particularly benefiting Thyssen-Hütte with new opportunities in sheet steel production.

1957
First Sendzimir Rolling Mill Operation in Germany

Deutsche Edelstahlwerke AG in Krefeld introduces the first Sendzimir rolling mill for cold rolling stainless steel in Germany. This innovation, pioneered by Tadeusz Sendzimir, revolutionizes cold-rolled steel production with its unique roller arrangement.

1958
Thyssen Acquires Stake in Rasselstein

Thyssen makes a strategic move by acquiring a stake in Rasselstein, further expanding its presence in the steel industry. This acquisition signifies Thyssen's commitment to growth and diversification.

1960
Thyssenkrupp Materials Processing Europe GmbH Establishment

Thyssenkrupp Materials Processing Europe GmbH was established in 1960. It has been a symbol of premium quality and perfect service, showcasing continuous growth and corporate success over the past six decades.

1961
Establishment of Krupp Hüttenwerk Rheinhausen

In 1961, Krupp Hüttenwerk Rheinhausen is established, marking a significant development in the steel industry during that period.

1963
Press Tour Emphasizing Architectural Design

During a press tour in 1963, Technical Director Alfred Michel highlights the architectural design of the steelworks, emphasizing that it can be attractive and visually pleasing while being embedded in landscaped grounds.

1965
Merger of Rheinhausen steelworks with Bochum Association for Cast Steel Fabrication

In 1965, the Rheinhausen steelworks merged with the Bochum Association for Cast Steel Fabrication to form the Hütten- und Bergwerke Rheinhausen AG, providing Krupp with a strong stainless steel base.

1971
Beeckerwerth Factory Awarded Gold Medal

The Beeckerwerth factory, built by August Thyssen-Hütte AG, is awarded the gold medal at the “Industry in the Landscape” national competition in 1971 for its emphasis on external and architectural design, particularly along the River Rhine.

1972
Construction of the roof of the Olympic Stadium in Munich by Krupp

In 1972, Krupp undertook the construction of the steel mesh roof for the Olympic Stadium in Munich, showcasing its expertise in steel engineering.

1973-02-05
Commissioning of Blast Furnace Schwelgern I in Duisburg

On February 5, 1973, the blast furnace plant Schwelgern I in Duisburg was commissioned, marking a significant event in the steel industry.

1977
Opening of New Training Center at Thyssen AG

Federal President Walter Scheel inaugurated the new training center at Thyssen AG, formerly August Thyssen-Hütte in Duisburg-Hamborn. The center aimed to provide specialized training for the workforce.

1978
Thyssen AG Enters North American Automotive Industry

Thyssen AG expands into the North American automotive industry by acquiring Budd's automotive operations in 1978, establishing ThyssenKrupp Budd Incorporated.

1980
Foundation of Krupp Stahl AG

Krupp Stahl AG was established in 1980 under the umbrella of ThyssenKrupp. The company shifted its focus from ordinary low-carbon steel to quality and stainless steels due to the steel crisis and competition for subsidies in the European Community.

1983
Introduction of Tailored Blanks in Automotive Industry

Thyssen Stahl introduces tailored blanks, which are individual sheets of varying thicknesses, coating, or steel quality welded together to create components with ultra high strength, reducing car weight and fuel consumption. This innovation revolutionizes the automotive industry.

1988
ThyssenKrupp Acquires Bilstein

ThyssenKrupp acquires German shock absorber manufacturer Bilstein in 1988, initially as a division before it becomes a wholly owned subsidiary in 2005.

1989
Integration of Thyssen Ros Casares

In 1989, ThyssenKrupp achieved internationalization milestones with the integration of a 50% interest in Thyssen Ros Casares, expanding its global presence.

1991
ThyssenKrupp Acquires Hoesch AG

In 1991, ThyssenKrupp expands its portfolio by acquiring German company Hoesch AG.

1992
Merger of Fried. Krupp AG with Hoesch AG

Fried. Krupp AG merges with Hoesch AG in 1992 to form Fried. Krupp AG Hoesch-Krupp, consolidating their operations and resources.

1993
Commissioning of Blast Furnace Schwelgern II

The second blast furnace in Schwelgern was commissioned with a hearth diameter of almost 15 meters, surpassing the size of the 'Black Giant' from 1973. The two blast furnaces in Schwelgern achieved a high capacity of 10,000 and 12,000 tons a day of pig iron, respectively.

1994
Formation of Thyssen Stahl-Service-Center GmbH

In 1994, Thyssen Stahl-Service-Center GmbH was formed within the former Thyssen AG through the merger of service centers in Leverkusen, Mannheim, and Bochum, establishing a new service provider in the market.

1995
Collaborations between Thyssen and Krupp in Steel Industry

In the 1990s, Thyssen and Krupp collaborate in various steel sectors, leading to joint ventures in tinplate, electrical steel, and stainless flat products in 1995, enhancing their market presence.

1997-09-01
Merger of Thyssen and Krupp

The merger of Thyssen and Krupp took place on September 1, 1997, leading to the establishment of Thyssen Krupp Stahl AG, one of the world's largest flat steel producers.

1999-03-17
Thyssen & Krupp merge to become Thyssen Krupp AG

On March 17, 1999, Thyssen & Krupp merged to form Thyssen Krupp AG, combining the iconic elements of the Thyssen arch and the Krupp rings in their new logo.

2000
Colored facades introduced at ThyssenKrupp Steel Europe

In the year 2000, ThyssenKrupp Steel Europe implemented colored facades in their new buildings as part of an environmental enhancement initiative. The designs by Friedrich Ernst von Garnier aimed to integrate the industrial structures with the surroundings.

2001
Operation of Vacuum Facility

One of the most up-to-date vacuum facilities at the factory goes into operation in 2001, showcasing the continuous technological advancements and investments made to adapt the equipment to the state of the art.

2002
Acquisition of Herzog Coilex GmbH and French steel service centers

In 2002, a 74.9% interest was acquired in Herzog Coilex GmbH in Stuttgart. Additionally, the French steel service centers Coste and Laminoirs et Ateliers de Jeumont were acquired, marking a significant expansion on the Western European market.

2003-03
Opening of new coking plant in Schwelgern

After a three-year construction period, the new coking plant in Schwelgern was put into operation in March 2003. It supplies coke for the large blast furnaces at ThyssenKrupp Steel Europe AG, replacing the coking plant in Duisburg-Bruckhausen.

2005
Decision to build a steelworks in Brazil

ThyssenKrupp Steel decided to build an integrated iron and steel mill in Brazil in 2005 due to global rise in steel demand, commodity prices, and competition. However, construction faced challenges leading to increasing costs and profitability issues.

2006-11
Price Fixing Scandal Involving ThyssenKrupp

In November 2006, ThyssenKrupp, along with four other elevator manufacturers, was found guilty of price fixing by the EU. The companies were fined a total of US$1.3 billion for rigging bids, sharing markets, and fixing prices between 1995 and 2004.

2007-05-11
ThyssenKrupp AG investment in Calvert, Alabama

In 2007, ThyssenKrupp AG invested €3.1 billion in building new carbon steel and stainless steel processing facilities in Calvert, Alabama, as part of its global expansion strategy into the North American steel markets.

2007-12-06
Turin plant fire at ThyssenKrupp

On December 6, 2007, a tragic accident occurred at the ThyssenKrupp plant in Turin, Italy, resulting in the death of seven steelworkers due to a fire on the annealing and pickling line.

2008
ThyssenKrupp Aerospace acquired Apollo Metals and Aviation Metals

In early 2008, ThyssenKrupp Aerospace bought Apollo Metals and Aviation Metals, suppliers to aerospace and defense industries in Kent, Washington.

2009
Expansion and re-establishing of the Group in Spain and Portugal

In 2009, there was an expansion and re-establishment of the Group with holdings in Spain and Portugal.

2010
Consolidation of West German plants in Krefeld

In 2010, the West German plants were consolidated at the new center in Krefeld.

2011
Opening of industry unit at Leverkusen

In 2011, an industry unit was opened at Leverkusen.

2012-06
ThyssenKrupp sold Thyssenkrupp Waupaca to KPS Capital Partners

In June 2012, ThyssenKrupp divested Thyssenkrupp Waupaca, a tier two automotive industry supplier in Waupaca, Wisconsin, to KPS Capital Partners.

2012-07
German Bundeskartellamt fines ThyssenKrupp and other companies for price-fixing

In July 2012, the German Bundeskartellamt imposed fines totaling €124.5 million on ThyssenKrupp GfT Gleistechnik GmbH and other companies for engaging in price-fixing of steel railway lines and points blades supplied to Deutsche Bahn.

2012-09
Sale of Tailored Blanks to Wuhan Iron and Steel Corporation

In September 2012, ThyssenKrupp agreed to sell Tailored Blanks to Wuhan Iron and Steel Corporation, a deal that included an undisclosed price and marked a significant move in the automotive components industry.

2013
Sale of ThyssenKrupp Tailored Blanks to Wuhan Iron and Steel Corporation (WISCO)

ThyssenKrupp completes the sale of tailored blanks to WISCO in 2013, marking a significant business transaction in the steel industry.

2014-04
ThyssenKrupp announced talks to sell its Swedish maritime defence unit to Saab

In April 2014, ThyssenKrupp revealed discussions with Saab to sell its Swedish maritime defense unit after failing to reach agreements with the Swedish government for new submarines.

2015-04
Investment in North American region

In April 2015, ThyssenKrupp announced an investment of over €800 million in the North American region by 2020 to capitalize on the economy's reindustrialization.

2016
Renaming of company group to thyssenkrupp Materials Processing Europe

In 2016, the company group underwent a name change to thyssenkrupp Materials Processing Europe.

2017-02
Sale of Brazilian steel business CSA to Ternium

In February 2017, ThyssenKrupp agreed to sell its Brazilian steel business CSA to Ternium for €1.5 billion, fully parting from the Steel Americas business.

2018-06
Thyssenkrupp signed agreement with Tata Steel for steel venture

In June 2018, Thyssenkrupp finalized a deal with Tata Steel to establish Thyssenkrupp Tata Steel, a joint venture becoming the second-largest steel producer in Europe.

2020-02
Sale of elevator segment to Advent International, Cinven, and RAG foundation

In February 2020, ThyssenKrupp AG's board decided to sell its elevator segment to Advent International, Cinven, and RAG foundation for $18.9 billion, leading to the formation of a new stand-alone company named TK Elevator.

2023-10-01
ThyssenKrupp to establish Decarbon Technologies division

On 1 October 2023, ThyssenKrupp will launch Decarbon Technologies, a green energy division focused on developing sustainable energy solutions.

End of the Timeline
ThyssenKrupp

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ThyssenKrupp

German industrial conglomerate
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