Festo celebrates 100 years of innovation

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Festo celebrates 100 years of innovation

Festo celebrates 100 years of innovation

Industry News
Apr 02,25

Festo continues to push boundaries in digitalisation, AI, biologisation, and the circular economy.

Festo celebrates 100 years of innovation

Festo marks its centenary with a global celebration under the theme 100 Years in Motion. Since its founding in 1925, the family-owned company has been a driving force in industrial automation and technical education. Today, it is a global leader in automation technology and a pioneer in workforce training, with anniversary events planned worldwide to honour its legacy and future vision.

Century of innovation and growth

Founded by Gottlieb Stoll and Albert Fezer, Festo began as a woodworking machinery company. Over the decades, it evolved into a leader in industrial automation, introducing pneumatics in 1950 and expanding internationally under Dr Wilfried Stoll. In 2000, Festo's power tools division was spun off into Festool GmbH, allowing the company to sharpen its focus on automation and education.

Commitment to education and industry transformation

Festo has long recognised that lifelong learning is crucial for technological advancement. Since 1965, Festo Didactic has provided global technical education, helping industries train skilled professionals. The company continues to push boundaries in digitalisation, AI, biologisation, and the circular economy, shaping the future of automation.

Global celebrations and future-focused innovation

To mark its 100th anniversary, Festo will host events across 60+ locations, including customer appreciation programs, school outreach activities, and special showcases at HANNOVER MESSE 2025. A top-secret innovation project will be unveiled at the event, demonstrating Festo’s expertise and vision for industrial transformation.

Additionally, the centenary year will launch a Corporate Citizenship Program, allowing 20,000 employees to participate in charitable initiatives, reinforcing Festo’s commitment to social responsibility.

Vision for the future

“As we celebrate 100 years, we reaffirm our dedication to innovation, sustainability, and education,” said Thomas Böck, Member of the Management Board. “This milestone is not just about looking back, but about shaping the future of industry and society.”

With a global presence in 176 countries, 20,600 employees, and €3.45 billion in revenue (2024), Festo continues to invest in research, development, and training, ensuring that its next century is as impactful as the first.