Schmalz, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of J. Schmalz GmbH, a global leader in vacuum automation and ergonomic handling solutions. Headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina, Schmalz, Inc. provides comprehensive sales, service, engineering, and support for customers across North America. The company’s product innovations and deep expertise in vacuum technology have made it a trusted partner for manufacturers in a wide array of industries, including automotive, logistics, electronics, woodworking, and packaging.
Core Business
Schmalz, Inc. specializes in vacuum technology for automation and material handling. The company’s offerings span from individual vacuum components to fully integrated gripping and lifting systems. These solutions are essential for increasing automation efficiency, improving workplace ergonomics, and reducing operating costs.
Product and Service Offerings
Schmalz offers a broad portfolio of vacuum technology products and systems, including:
- Vacuum Components:
- Suction cups for various surfaces and applications
- Ejectors, vacuum generators, valves, sensors, and filters
- Vacuum Gripping Systems:
- Layer gripping systems for palletizing and depalletizing
- Area gripping systems for flexible automation
- Customized end-of-arm tools (EOAT) for robotics and cobots
- Vacuum Lifters and Crane Systems:
- Jumbo series: vacuum tube lifters for high-frequency lifting
- VacuMaster series: for heavy-duty lifting applications
- Slewing and jib cranes to complement lifting systems
- Clamping Equipment:
- Vacuum clamping solutions for CNC machining, including modular clamping blocks and tables
These solutions are widely used in both manual workstations and automated production lines, often integrated with robotic systems.
Specialization and Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
Schmalz stands out in the vacuum automation industry through:
- Engineering Excellence: Custom solution development for complex automation needs
- Industry 4.0 Readiness: Smart vacuum components with IO-Link and sensor-based feedback
- Ergonomic Handling Systems: Reducing workplace injuries and improving productivity
- Global Network with Local Support: Access to Schmalz’s international R&D combined with North American engineering, training, and warehousing capabilities
The company emphasizes customer-specific configurations, ensuring that each solution is optimized for its environment and application.
Financial Strength
As part of J. Schmalz GmbH, a globally recognized company headquartered in Germany, Schmalz, Inc. benefits from a strong financial foundation. Globally:
- Schmalz employs over 1,800 people across more than 20 international locations
- The company recorded revenues of over €130 million in recent fiscal years
- The U.S. subsidiary continues to grow through expanded warehousing and customer support operations, driven by increased demand for automation technologies in North America
Shipment Data
Schmalz, Inc. serves both direct OEMs and distributors across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Key shipment and logistics insights:
- Domestic U.S. distribution from its Raleigh facility, including same-day and next-day fulfillment for critical components
- Frequent imports from Germany, supported by an integrated supply chain and ERP system
- Active participation in trade shows and technology expos, which often result in bulk shipments of demo and project systems
Target Market
Schmalz’s solutions are utilized by:
- Manufacturing and assembly operations (automotive, electronics, machinery)
- Packaging and logistics providers
- Woodworking and metalworking industries
- Food and beverage processors
- Warehouse automation integrators and robotic OEMs
The company serves both large multinational factories and small-scale integrators with equal focus.
Capabilities
Key operational capabilities include:
- In-house engineering support for application design and customization
- Training center and demo lab at its Raleigh headquarters
- Full-scale product assembly, testing, and repair services
- Robust e-commerce platform and digital CAD/configurator tools for designers
- Integration of smart vacuum technologies for predictive maintenance and data-driven production
Certifications and Compliance
Schmalz operates under stringent quality and safety systems:
- ISO 9001-certified quality management
- CE marking for all European-compliant products
- OSHA-compliant ergonomic lifters for workplace safety
- Products designed to meet UL, CSA, and IEC standards where applicable
- Active development in Industry 4.0 and Smart Factory standards
Customer Testimonials
While individual testimonials are limited in public domains, Schmalz, Inc. is a preferred supplier for major names in the automotive, consumer electronics, and industrial automation sectors. Case studies published by the company highlight successful deployments with leading manufacturers who credit Schmalz with improving productivity, safety, and throughput.
Major Achievements
- Successfully expanded from Germany into North America with a full-service U.S. operation
- Developed award-winning vacuum automation components featured in global robotics platforms
- Pioneered smart vacuum technology adoption in U.S. industrial environments
- Continues to be a key partner in the rise of collaborative robot (cobot) tooling for safe human-machine interaction
