History of HAFA
Company Foundation during the German Economic Miracle
After World War II, following the 1948 currency reform and the founding of the Federal Republic of Germany, the country saw a period of economic growth. Many companies resumed operations, and new small- and medium-sized businesses emerged. Kurt Alten was one of these founders.
Mechanical Engineering – His Passion
Kurt Alten was born on December 23, 1925, in Lathwehren, near Hannover. Fascinated by technology from an early age, he began studying mechanical engineering in 1943. However, he was drafted into the military that same year. After World War II, he became a prisoner of war in France but escaped in 1947. He resumed his studies that autumn, earning his degree in 1950.
First Patent
Immediately after graduating, Alten started working as a trainee at Continental Gummiwerke Hannover. As a rationalization engineer, he designed systems for internal transport. In 1957, he registered his first patent for a movable loading bridge.
The Creation of the "Hafa" Brand
In 1959, Kurt Alten and his wife, Hildegard, founded a design office for loading systems called "H.F. Alten" in Hannover. He outsourced the production of his products, selling them under the name “hafa.” The company relocated in 1963 to Wennigsen, where they started manufacturing in their own facilities.
Support from His Family
Running the business demanded time and dedication from both Alten and his family. His first wife, Hildegard, was deeply involved until her death in 1969. In 1972, Alten married Barbara, who joined the company and provided strong support alongside him.
Hafa: A Global Leader in Loading Technology
Within 30 years, Alten transformed his one-man engineering office into a globally leading company in loading technology, amassing hundreds of patents and utility models.
Recognition and Legacy
In 1994, Kurt Alten received the Order of Merit of Lower Saxony. In 1998, Kurt and Barbara Alten decided to sell their company to a Swedish business partner. Since 2014, their products have also been marketed under the brand Assa Abloy.
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