30 years of Optibelt Produktions GmbH in Bad Blankenburg
Modernity, tradition and strong prospects for the future
Bad Blankenburg/Höxter, 08 May 2025
Optibelt Produktions GmbH celebrates its 30th anniversary at its long-established site in Bad Blankenburg. As the second-oldest production site in the Arntz Optibelt Group, the plant represents a success story characterised by ingenuity, team spirit and a long-standing commitment to the region.
The roots of the site date back to 1870, when Carl Vollrath began manufacturing woven drive belts. Over the decades, the company evolved into a leading manufacturer of hoses, conveyor belts and V-belts – supplying vehicles such as the Trabant and Wartburg, as well as a wide range of export markets around the globe. When Optibelt took over V-belt production in 1995, the plant underwent systematic modernisation and the product portfolio was expanded to include innovative drive elements. The introduction of new production lines such as optibelt RED POWER and optibelt OMEGA, along with the continuous modernisation of technology, have made Bad Blankenburg a modern and future-ready location.
Team spirit, growth and diversity
"The 30th anniversary of Optibelt Produktions GmbH is a testament to the ingenuity and dedication of our team. The commitment and skills of our employees have played a vital role in our successful integration as a manufacturing company within the Arntz Optibelt Group and in establishing ourselves as a modern production site in Thuringia," emphasises Plant Manager Lars Machold.
The number of employees has remained stable in recent years. Particularly in the first years following the takeover, new jobs were created within a short period of time. "In the early days in Bad Blankenburg, we hired 72 new employees in a short period of time, which demonstrates how appealing our site is to skilled workers in the region," says Machold, praising the Thuringian facility.
Training as an investment in the future
Optibelt Produktions GmbH has also been a recognised training company for many years, offering young people a wide range of career opportunities. The introduction of new apprenticeship programmes and modern, hands-on training will ensure a skilled workforce for the future and strengthen ties to the region. "The long-term viability of our Bad Blankenburg site rests on two pillars: tradition and innovation. Investing in young people is of particular strategic importance to us – they are the key to securing our expertise and success in the future," emphasises Konrad Ummen, Managing Director of the Arntz Optibelt Group.
Looking ahead
Today, Optibelt Produktions GmbH is renowned for its exceptional quality standards, continuous modernisation and strong commitment to the region. The 30th anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect proudly on past achievements and to shape the future with confidence.
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