The economic environment remains challenging: tariffs, ongoing cost pressure, and a weak economy are shaping the outlook for the new fiscal year. Christine Grotz, managing partner of WEBER-HYDRAULIK GMBH, assesses the current situation and provides an outlook on the priorities for 2026.
“We are looking ahead to the new fiscal year with cautious optimism, but we know that the conditions remain challenging,” says Grotz. The focus in 2026 will clearly be on competitiveness, efficiency, and the consistent further development of the company.
Looking ahead to the rest of the year, a sustained recovery of the markets is not to be expected. At the same time, the group of companies stabilized last year. “We are in a more stable position today because we have done our homework,” says Grotz. “But the stagnating economy in Germany, general cost pressure, high energy prices, and the tariff conflict with the US continue to take a heavy toll on us.”
This stabilization did not happen automatically. In addition to consistent cost management, the family owned company with locations in Germany, Austria, and Poland has initiated structural and procedural changes in particular. These include adjustments to the corporate model for a clearer alignment of the individual business areas and measures to increase efficiency along central processes. The aim is to be able to respond more quickly, more focused, and more resiliently to market changes. These adjustments are accompanied by consistent risk management to further reduce dependencies in the supply chain.
Technological change as the foundation for long-term competitiveness
Despite the challenging environment, the specialist for hydraulic solutions, valve technology, and rescue equipment was able to maintain its market position with its products. Innovative rescue technology in particular has contributed to its success in recent years. With the WEBER RESCUE SYSTEMS brand, the company is on a steady growth course. Most recently, it was once again recognized as a leading supplier in the field of hydraulic rescue systems in the WirtschaftsWoche ranking and took a leading position in the “World Market Leader Champions 2025” ranking. This positioning is the result of many years of development work and a clear focus on quality and reliability.
Another important step in the company’s strategic development is the start of series production of its own electromechanical rear axle steering system this year. After several years of development, it marks a milestone in the technological transformation – away from being a pure component manufacturer to becoming a system provider. This is complemented by further product developments and a new business division in which the group develops and produces axial flow motors for electrified drive technologies.
Consistently advancing cultural change
Parallel to its economic and structural realignment, the group is continuing to drive forward the cultural change it has embarked upon. “We continue to focus on a structure in which self-managing teams and personal responsibility on the part of our employees play a significant role,” emphasizes Grotz. Modern management principles, clear responsibilities, and sustainable structures are crucial, especially in challenging times. The focus is on strengthening personal responsibility, further developing leadership, and expanding sustainable safety and health management. The goal is to make the organization efficient and future-proof in the long term.