reflexGroup, part of the internationally active Winkelmann Group, has significantly expanded its production capacities in storage technologies. The company, which specialises in solutions for water-bearing systems, opened a new facility in Rimavská Sobota, Slovakia. This investment is part of a comprehensive global growth strategy, which includes the expansion of production and logistics sites, particularly in Poland. Rimavská Sobota marks the company's eighth production site worldwide.
The expansion of production capacities is a response to the globally increased demand for efficient heating and cooling systems, triggered by climate change and the associated energy transition. In particular, the necessity for high-performance hot water and buffer storage systems, coupled with heat pump technologies and alternative energy sources, forms the basis of this strategic decision.
Site Expansion and Sustainability
An industrial infrastructure was created on a newly developed site in Rimavská Sobota, the centrepiece of which is a production hall spanning approximately 49,000 square metres. This is supplemented by an assembly hall and an integrated logistics warehouse. A focus on sustainability was placed during the realisation of the project, which is reflected in ecologically designed parking zones, newly created infrastructure with roads and paths, and generous green spaces.
The site is geared towards the manufacturing of hot water storage tanks, which are primarily used in modern heating and cooling systems, especially in conjunction with heat pumps. The current workforce of 185 employees is expected to grow to up to 450 people when fully operational. This underscores the long-term importance of the site for the regional economy.
Strategic Importance and Regional Integration
Dr. Sandra Bell, CEO of reflexGroup, emphasised that the new facility represents an important milestone for the company's development and, as Europe's largest plant for hot water cylinders, ensures global delivery capability. At the same time, the investment contributes to Europe's transition to more energy-efficient heating and cooling technologies. Christian Knechtel, CEO of Winkelmann Group, added that the company aims to actively shape the European energy and heating transition and is investing in intelligent and innovative storage solutions to enable sustainable production for a climate-friendly future.
The official opening of the plant was celebrated with a ceremony attended by national and regional government representatives, business leaders, as well as international customers and partners. Around 320 guests gained insights into the automated manufacturing process. Following the official event, a family festival was held at the plant site, intended to position the site as an attractive employer in the region. Peter Daniel, Plant Manager of reflexGroup Slovakia, highlighted that the investment goes beyond a mere production facility and aims to establish a long-term partnership with the local community.
