Klüber Lubrication Company Profile

Background

Klüber Lubrication, established in 1929 by Theodor Klüber in Munich, Germany, is a leading manufacturer of specialty lubricants, offering high-end tribological solutions across various industries worldwide. The company is a subsidiary of Freudenberg Chemical Specialities SE & Co. KG, a business unit of the Freudenberg Group. With over 90 years of experience, Klüber Lubrication has developed a reputation for providing high-quality lubricants, comprehensive consultation, and extensive services. The company operates in more than 30 countries, employing approximately 2,500 people globally.

Key Strategic Focus

Klüber Lubrication's strategic focus centers on delivering innovative and sustainable lubrication solutions tailored to meet the specific needs of its customers. The company emphasizes:

Customization: Developing lubricants that address unique operational challenges across diverse industries.

Co-Creation: Collaborating closely with customers to engineer tribological solutions that enhance performance and efficiency.

Consistency: Maintaining high standards of quality and reliability in all products and services.

Key technologies utilized include advanced synthetic lubricants, eco-friendly formulations, and specialized additives designed to improve performance and reduce environmental impact. The company serves a wide range of markets, including automotive, industrial manufacturing, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy sectors.

Financials and Funding

In 2022, Klüber Lubrication reported a turnover of €949 million. The company is privately held and does not publicly disclose detailed financial information or funding history. As a subsidiary of the Freudenberg Group, Klüber Lubrication benefits from the group's financial stability and resources.

Pipeline Development

Klüber Lubrication continually develops and refines its product portfolio to meet evolving industry demands. The company focuses on:

Sustainable Products: Introducing lubricants that are lithium-free, REACH-compliant, and water-based, aligning with environmental regulations and customer sustainability goals.

High-Performance Solutions: Developing lubricants that enhance equipment efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and extend service life.

Industry-Specific Applications: Creating specialized lubricants for sectors such as wind energy, automotive, and food processing.

Specific product development timelines and milestones are not publicly disclosed.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Klüber Lubrication distinguishes itself through:

Proprietary Technologies: Advanced synthetic lubricants and specialized additives tailored for diverse industrial applications.

Scientific Methods: Utilizing a comprehensive testing facility with over 100 test rigs to simulate real-world conditions and optimize lubricant performance.

AI-Driven Capabilities: Implementing data-based condition monitoring approaches to assess lubricant performance and predict maintenance needs.

These innovations enable the company to provide customized solutions that enhance operational efficiency and sustainability for its clients.

Leadership Team

The leadership team at Klüber Lubrication includes:

Wolfgang Sammer: Executive Vice President Sales & Marketing and CEO, responsible for overseeing global sales strategies and operations.

Markus Murmann: Executive Vice President, leading strategic initiatives and business development efforts.

Martin Schmidt-Amelunxen: Executive Vice President Technology and R&D, focusing on research and development to drive innovation.

These leaders bring extensive experience in the lubrication industry and are committed to advancing Klüber Lubrication's mission and strategic objectives.

Leadership Changes

In January 2024, Wolfgang Sammer assumed the role of Executive Vice President Sales & Marketing and CEO, succeeding Claus Langgartner, who retired. This leadership change is part of Klüber Lubrication's ongoing efforts to strengthen its executive team and drive future growth.

Market Insights and Dynamics

The specialty lubricants market is characterized by:

Market Size and Growth Potential: A substantial and growing market driven by industrial expansion, technological advancements, and increasing demand for high-performance lubricants.

Industry Trends: A shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly lubricants, integration of digital technologies for condition monitoring, and a focus on customized solutions for diverse industrial applications.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors of Klüber Lubrication include:

FUCHS: A global leader in specialty lubricants, offering a comprehensive range of products and services across various industries.

OKS Spezialschmierstoffe: A provider of specialty lubricants focusing on maintenance, repair, and operations applications.

Carl Bechem: A manufacturer of specialty lubricants with a strong presence in the industrial sector.

These competitors offer similar products and services, contributing to a competitive landscape in the specialty lubricants market.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

In October 2025, Klüber Lubrication and OKS Spezialschmierstoffe announced a strategic collaboration under the umbrella of Freudenberg Chemical Specialities. This partnership aims to combine their strengths in sales, production, and research and development to enhance their market position and innovation capacity.

Operational Insights

Klüber Lubrication's strategic considerations include:

Major Competitors: FUCHS, OKS Spezialschmierstoffe, and Carl Bechem.

Market Position: A leading position in the specialty lubricants market, recognized for high-quality products and innovative solutions.

Competitive Advantages: Strong focus on sustainability, extensive research and development capabilities, and a global presence enabling tailored solutions for diverse industries.