The milestones of our company
We have been an integral part of our industry for over a century and four generations. Our history is characterized by constant change, innovation and the unwavering pursuit of excellence.
In the following sections, we take you on a journey through the groundbreaking milestones in our company history that have shaped our development and our influence on the industry since RAU was founded in 1914.
1914
In 1914, the company was founded as a tinsmith and plumbing business by Matthäus Rau in Augsburg. The logo shows this by combining the lines of a corrugated iron roof and a gas flame.
The 2nd generation Rau
Franz Rau (senior) joined the company at the end of the 1930s. His masterpiece was an ornate lamp (see picture). At that time, sheet metal molds were produced for the aircraft industry. The company was also actively involved in the guild. He took over the company in 1946.
Premiere at the Stuttgart trade fair
Franz Rau (Sr.) developed his first gas test pieces, which he presented for the first time at the trade fair in Stuttgart. The initial interest was extremely low. Today, these test adapters are standard accessories for every measuring device.
High-risk tasks on landmarks
We can look back on some extraordinary work orders in our company history: For example, the installation of lightning conductors on important Augsburg buildings such as the town hall, Perlach and a water tower. The fact that this work was carried out without scaffolding, using only rope ladders, was particularly remarkable.
1951 en
Faced with a tight schedule for the completion of the roof of the Rosenaustadion in Augsburg, Mr. Rau once again showed his innovative strength: he developed the sheet metal bending pliers. This innovative tool enabled him to successfully meet the tight schedule.
Conversion of the plant
site Due to a lack of space and in order to improve transport routes, the store and workshop in Schißlerstraße in Augsburg were significantly expanded and redesigned.
Coveted tool innovations
Inspired by the idea, "There must be a better way!", Mr. Rau developed further innovative tools such as the sheet metal bending device. Word of the innovations quickly spread among his colleagues. Many more followed in the 70s - 90s, revolutionizing the tinsmith industry: eaves canters, eaves closers, angle seam closers, hand canters, angle double seamers and many more.
60s
During the period of prosperity, the company flourished, which led to the production of numerous high-quality furnishing and decorative objects.
Introducing our first revolutionary gas line tester
Successful trade fair appearances
The company made a clear statement in the industry through its presence at numerous trade fairs and stood out in particular at the IHM Munich trade fair for the skilled trades with its own stand.
The 3 . Generation Rau
With Mr. Franz Rau, master plumber and graduate engineer "Energy and Supply Technology", the third generation Rau joins the company. Expansion of the field of activity with an engineering office for heating, ventilation and air conditioning.
Awarded the Federal Prize for Innovation
1992
The blue and yellow distinguishing feature
USA become part of international activities
90s
Further federal award in recognition of innovative performance
From Augsburg to Meitingen
Opening of the showroom
Logo transformation
2009
From the building to the new logo
The 4th generation Rau
Tool wall for prospective specialists
Visit from the Bundestag
2020
Today