Kirkel/Attendorn, 29 June 2026 – The Viega Group, a leading global manufacturer of plumbing and heating installation technology, has today officially opened its new production site in Kirkel, Saarland. The official opening of the site was attended by Saarland Minister-President Anke Rehlinger, distinguished representatives from politics and business, and numerous employees. An investment of around 150 million euros and 150 new jobs underscore Viega's commitment to Germany as an economic location and to the region.
Headquartered in Attendorn, North Rhine-Westphalia, the company has redeveloped the former Michelin warehouses in Kirkel, near Homburg, into a state-of-the-art production facility for metal press connectors. "It’s hard to believe that only nine months have passed since we received the keys," recalled plant manager Benjamin Schneider in his welcome address, reflecting with pride on his team and the progress they have made. "Setting up the infrastructure, installing the machinery and training the new staff – everyone involved has done an outstanding job." Around 100 employees have already taken up their roles at the new production site. The number is set to rise to 150 by the middle of next year.
Numerous factors made Kirkel an attractive location
The company had deliberately sought an existing industrial site that could be brought into operation quickly. The decision to establish a sixth site in Germany was made with the same careful consideration. "We operate globally. We have locations on three continents. That said, Germany is and will continue to be a key production base for us," explained Franz Viegener, Co-Chair of the Viega Shareholders’ Committee. Several compelling factors made Kirkel, Saarland, the ideal location for the new site. "First of all, the outstanding expertise of the local workforce, especially the high concentration of skilled professionals in the metalworking industry," he said. Other key factors included the site's excellent transport connections, direct access to the motorway network, and its central location in the heart of Europe. Ultimately, the site’s long-term expansion potential also played a key role in the acquisition of the former logistics warehouses, covering 18,000 square metres of floor space, along with the 100,000-square-metre property.
A family business now in its fifth generation
"We are a company that has come here to succeed, grow, and put down roots,” said Anna Viegener. Starting out in a farm shed in Attendorn manufacturing beer taps, the company has grown into a global leader in metal press connector systems with a 127-year history of success. It now employs over 5,500 people across 11 locations worldwide. "And we will continue to be a family-owned company," the Co-Chair of the Viega Shareholders’ Committee added. "A strong focus on innovation for technological progress. And keen to invest in people, markets and our corporate objectives. Even in challenging times such as these."
Kirkel: In the heart of Europe
Karsten Müller, CEO of Viega Europe, highlighted the key role of Kirkel within the Viega Group's production network. He also emphasised the company’s market position as an expert in safe drinking water for buildings and as a global technology leader in installation technology, recognised for its quality, service, supply reliability, and innovative strength. "The Kirkel site represents a strategic expansion of our production capacity, particularly for metal press connectors, our core business. It will make a significant contribution to the global and European supply chain and to ensuring we can meet our customers' needs," explained Karsten Müller.
Saarland perspective
"Viega’s decision to establish operations here is a clear commitment to Saarland as a strong industrial location," said Saarland Minister-President Anke Rehlinger, commending the company's commitment. "The investment of 150 million euros by a globally successful hidden champion, following a comprehensive location analysis, is a strong endorsement of our skilled workforce, industrial strength, and capacity to successfully drive transformation. I am thrilled that Viega deliberately chose an established industrial site. This demonstrates how effectively we are advancing structural change and leveraging existing potential. The Am Zunderbaum industrial estate demonstrates how transformation can open up new perspectives. Viega aligns perfectly with our industrial heritage, our dedication to quality, and our proactive, solution-oriented mindset when addressing challenges. "We are delighted to welcome this strong new addition to the Saarland economy."
