Vacuum presses in ISO-certified, Austrian production

FROM INVENTIVE SPIRIT TO GLOBALB RAND – 50 YEARS OF COLUMBUS

Where traditional craftsmanship meets high-tech expertise.

Since 1976, Columbus has stood for innovative vacuum technology in the woodworking industry. Founded by a third-generation master carpenter – Günther Vetter, the inventor of the vacuum bag – the company has become the world market leader in vacuum presses.

Managing Director Ruth Koppenberger has shaped Columbus since 1991, leading the company with a clear vision and an international focus. She successfully built up world wide sales and developed the patented Pioneer modular system, which enables flexible and needs-based investments. With Columbus 360°, she also initiated a unique complete solution that combines technology, decades of practical experience, and artificial intelligence to create maximum application reliability.

Columbus stands for quality, investment protection, and collaborative partnerships – and for vacuum technology that opens up new market opportunities for businesses worldwide.

WHAT HAS SHAPED ME – AND WHAT DEFINES COLUMBUS TO THIS DAY

Growing up in a carpentry workshop teaches you early what truly matters in craftsmanship: reliability, clarity in application, and an

understanding that every decision regarding materials and processes also has economic consequences.

My father was a third-generation master carpenter and founded Columbus in 1976. I joined the company in 1991 and have led
Columbus as Managing Director and owner since 1996. During this time, I have worked with workshops around the world, developed and patented the Pioneer modular system, and built up our international sales network – and above all, I have consistently listened to what users truly need.

One pattern became clear again and again: there is significant uncertainty in the market when it comes to working with vacuum

technology. Not due to a lack of interest, but because it is often unclear how to apply it correctly, safely, and economically in everyday
practice.

For me, the 50th anniversary of Columbus made one thing clear: more than technology alone is required. What is needed is a comprehensive system that makes the application of vacuum technology reliable and secure. This is why I developed Columbus 360° – a concept that, for the first time, brings together technology, application expertise, and digital support within a single, integrated system.

Yours, Ruth Koppenberger
r.koppenberger@columbus-tech.com