With a ceremonial event, Kögel Trailer GmbH inaugurated its new production facility for refrigerated vehicle panels at its headquarters in Burtenbach at the beginning of May – a technological milestone and a clear commitment to the German location. Together with Bavaria's Deputy Minister for Finance and Homeland, Martin Schöffel, Kögel owner Ulrich Humbaur and CEO Christian Renners cut the red ribbon – accompanied by the applause of the invited guests.
"Economic success and climate protection are not mutually exclusive – they belong together. The production opens up a new market, strengthens the economy, and secures jobs in the region. The logistics industry is the backbone of our
economy and at the same time a key area for more climate protection. The new facility is a clear sign: We are moving towards climate-friendly and efficient logistics. For this, I thank you on behalf of the state government," said Deputy Minister for Homeland Schöffel.
The new production line is designed for the production of panels for the "KÖGEL COOL LITESHELL". In doing so, Kögel relies on innovative lightweight materials such as milled PU rigid foam blocks, glass fiber mats, and TPU instead of classic steel top layers. The result: lower empty weight, reduced fuel consumption, more loading capacity, and significantly lower CO₂ emissions. This, the company
says, makes a noticeable contribution to sustainable logistics – especially in temperature-controlled transport of sensitive goods such as food and pharmaceuticals.
Commitment to the Location Germany
Despite a tense economic situation, the company is deliberately investing in growth and innovation. The choice of location for the new facility was consciously made for Burtenbach – with its proven infrastructure, central location, and highly skilled workforce. "Here beats the heart of Kögel," was the unanimous message of the day.
"We are investing not only in machines, but in the future of our customers, our region, and our environment. The KÖGEL COOL LITESHELL is more than a product. It is
an expression of our attitude: We want to offer customers solutions that set standards in quality, efficiency, and sustainability," says Kögel CEO Christian Renners.
The project was supported by the federal program "Future Investments for Vehicle Manufacturers and Supplier Industry" of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action. The support emphasizes the goal of combining economic performance with ecological responsibility – a commitment to which Kögel claims to be dedicated.
The first trailers with the new panels are expected to go into practical use with pilot customers later this year. With the expanded production, Kögel aims to achieve significantly shorter delivery times for refrigerated vehicles
