150 years of innovation

In 2025, RUD Ketten Rieger & Dietz GmbH u. Co. KG looks back on 150 years of company history. What began in 1875 as a small forge for chains and wire components in Aalen-Unterkochen, Swabia, has developed over a century and a half into a leading international supplier of chain and drive systems, as well as commercial furnishings. With innovative strength, quality awareness, and a strong foundation of values, RUD has shaped industrial change for generations – and remains a reliable partner for future-oriented solutions in a wide variety of industries.

Still headquartered in Aalen-Unterkochen, the family-owned company is present in over 120 countries today and stands for the highest quality, innovation, and sustainable business practices. The core of the product range remains the round steel chain – manufactured in a wide variety of versions and further developed into lifting, conveyor, sling, and anti-skid chains. The portfolio is complemented by lifting points, drives, and conveyor elements, as well as complete system solutions and innovative solutions for mechanical engineering, logistics, defense technology, and numerous other sectors. RUD products are used worldwide – from industry to mining to agriculture – in a wide variety of applications: wherever the highest demands are placed on safety, precision, and reliability.

A key success factor is consistent investment in research and development. RUD holds numerous patents and has received numerous awards for its innovative performance. At the same time, the company remains true to its roots: As a fifth-generation family business, RUD places great value on long-term partnerships, social responsibility, and the development of its employees. Particular attention is paid to social commitment: Through the Otto Rieger Foundation and the Trude Eipperle Rieger Foundation, which were established to mark the company's centenary, RUD has supported social, cultural, and educational projects in the region for many years. This commitment is also reflected in the multi-year partnership with 1. FC Heidenheim. As a sponsor, RUD supports the Bundesliga soccer club not only financially but also ideologically – with shared values such as team spirit, reliability, and regional ties.

With a clear focus on digitalization, sustainability, and an international corporate orientation, RUD is optimistic about the future. Even after 150 years, the company remains the partner of choice when it comes to intelligent chain systems and innovative solutions. "150 years of RUD – that's 150 years full of passion, inventiveness, and solidarity. We thank everyone who has walked this path with us and look forward to everything that is still to come," summarizes Dr. Jörg S. Rieger, Member of the Management Board.