1st January, 2026 marks the centenary of Haffner Germany, the world-leading manufacturer of PVC-U and aluminium fabrication technology. Dave Thomas, CEO and founder of Haffner Ltd, said: “Haffner machines have transformed the way windows and doors are manufactured, driving productivity, quality and efficiency for fabricators around the globe. Reaching 100 years is not only a celebration of our heritage, but a reminder of how our machinery continues to set the benchmark for the industry.”
Founded in 1926 in Pforzheim, Germany, by Gotthold Haffner, the company began by producing precision woodworking hand machines. Over the decades, Haffner has evolved into one of the most influential names in the fenestration sector, known globally for its advanced CNC technology and fully automated fabrication lines.
Today, the company is perhaps best known for its SBA profile machining centres. The latest iteration, the SBA-4 PVC-U Profile Machining Centre, draws on decades of automated expertise and delivers an exceptional balance of cutting and machining performance for PVC-U profiles.
Haffner’s impact on fabrication efficiency is also demonstrated by its welding technology. The SMR-4 Four Head Welder eliminates corner-weld misalignment by automatically aligning corners and transoms, removing the need for a highly skilled operator and significantly reducing costly remakes. Alongside it, the SMR-5 Five Head Welding Machine allows a single operative to weld twice as many frames compared to a standard quad welder, transforming productivity and profitability on the shop floor. Haffner’s KT Assembly Tables further enhance workflow by bringing multiple assembly processes together in a single, efficient workstation.
Haffner Ltd has been part of the Haffner story for more than 35 of the 100 years, and the company has always continued the track record of excellence set by its German counterparts. It has won two G Awards for Machinery Supplier of the Year and secured two NFA Awards for Machinery Company of the Year. Dave said: “Our multiple awards reflect our commitment to delivering machinery, technical expertise and long-term partnerships that help fabricators scale with confidence.”
Dave concluded: “As we celebrate this important milestone, we’re not just reflecting on the past, we’re looking firmly ahead. Haffner’s legacy is built on precision machinery design, but its future is about enabling fabricators to compete and grow in an evolving market. Celebrating 100 years is a proud moment for us all and we’re committed to ensuring the next century has just as much impact on the industry as the last.”
