1952
How it began: Engineers Herbert Ott and Rudolf Schestag founded “Ingenieurbüro LEWA” LEonberger WAsseraufbereitung
(Leonberger Water Treatment). Their unique selling proposition was soon “customised metering pumps”.

1962
More than 100 employees: Lewa markets its product range in major parts of Europe and overseas, in countries such as
the US.

1972
Completing a successful decade: By developing sophisticated diaphragm pumps, Lewa tripled revenues within a period of
10 years.

1982
Reengineering process successfully completed: In the 1970s, Lewa continually works to improve its technologies and, in the early 1980s, replaces one technology with a fundamentally new model range.

1992
A broad platform: Process diaphragm pumps, systems technology and service now drive the company’s development.
In addition to its own product range, Lewa also begins distributing the products of other manufacturers.

2002
Half a century: Through its extensive network of sales offices and sales representatives, Lewa is present in more than 60 countries worldwide. Lewa focuses on a new corporate objective: ‘The Technology Advantage’.

September 2005
Change of ownership: In a management buyout, a group of investors led by DBAG acquires the familyowned business from the wife of the late owner, Herbert Ott, and their daughters.

A “fantastic time” and “a great experience before retiring” – Dr Reinhard Dechow’s words sound enthusiastic when he describes Lewa’s change of ownership in 2005. The former owners – the wife of the late founder, Herbert Ott, and their two daughters – had been looking for a new owner who would warrant the company’s ability to operate independently. Having led the family-owned business in the past, Dr Dechow was instrumental in finding new partners, people who, as he puts it, would “understand a mechanical engineering firm, have the courage to initiate change and help drive the company’s development”. Having spent another two years on the management team and then on the advisory council, he had a crucial part in Lewa’s strategic development.

2007
New milestone in performance: With a staff of 600 in 16 subsidiaries worldwide, Lewa increases sales by 25% within a period of one year. This motivates the company to reach for new horizons, and to continue its international expansion.

September 2009
Takeover by Nikkiso Co., Ltd.: After four years of impressive growth, Lewa becomes an attractive property, ready to take on the next phase of its development under the ownership of a strategic investor.