Solingen's GEDORE factory reborn as a futuristic business hub
Solingen ā In economically challenging times, investor Volker Einbeck is sending a clear signal of confidence in Solingen as a business location and its future. By acquiring and redeveloping the former industrial site of GEDORE Tool Factory GmbH & Co. KG, he is transforming historic ground into a modern Future Campusāa project that uniquely blends tradition, innovation, and economic opportunity.
After GEDORE Tool Factory GmbH & Co. KG abandoned its long-standing site a few years ago, the sprawling area in the heart of Solingen now faces a fresh chapter. While others might see economic risk, Einbeck recognizes potentialāand a deeply personal mission.
"For me, this project is far more than an investment. It's an emotional return to a place that shaped my professional journey in decisive ways," explains Einbeck. His ties to the site run deep: as a student, he gained his first work experience here, and later returned as managing director. Now, he is actively shaping its future.
From Industrial Site to Model for the Future
The vision extends far beyond conventional revitalization. The goal is to create a cutting-edge business hub that provides companies with ideal conditions for growth and development. The existing infrastructure has beenāand continues to beācomprehensively modernized: new roofing, upgraded technical systems, high-capacity power supply, and fiber-optic connectivity lay the foundation for contemporary, sustainable use.
Einbeck deliberately bridges past and future. Historic structures are preserved and thoughtfully integrated into new concepts. For example, the former Dorp Town Hall will be conserved as an architectural testament to history and given new life.
A Network for Growth
The campus offers a versatile range of uses. Modern halls for production and logistics, flexible office spaces, and representative rooms in historic buildings are already planned and available.
Beyond that, the site provides opportunities for skilled trades, manufacturing, assembly, services, healthcare offerings, or creative business models. Hybrid conceptsāsuch as combining production, offices, and servicesācan also be flexibly implemented.
A key partner in the project's development is Solingen.Business. "The support from Solingen.Business has been a decisive factor in this project's success," emphasizes Einbeck. Several companies have already committed to the new location.
Flexible Solutions and Direct Support
One of the project's standout advantages is its adaptability. Customized adjustments to spaces and buildings are possible, as is assistance with expansion projects or specific operational needs. A tight-knit network of local trade and service partners ensures that many requests can be addressed quickly and pragmatically.
For businesses, this means one thing: short distances, fast decisions, and direct contacts with experienced entrepreneurs.
More Than a Business Park: A Place for Connection
Yet the Future Campus aims to be more than just a commercial site. Alongside economic activity, it is designed to become a vibrant social hub. Plans include seminar spaces, fitness and wellness offerings, andālooking aheadāevents like markets, networking gatherings, and regional festivals.
"We want to show what's possible and inspire courageāespecially in challenging times. It's crucial to look ahead and actively shape the future," says Einbeck.
With this vision, Solingen is gaining a landmark that drives economic momentum, preserves identity, and demonstrates how industrial heritage can be transformed into a bold new future.
