META - a company in transition
Over 125 years of company history means constant change - whether through expansion, restructuring, new business areas, relocations or the development of innovations.
On New Year's Eve 1896, Casper Schnettler and August Linneborn signed the founding of the company "Schnettler & Co. Nail Factory". Until 1963, when the first modular steel shelving was manufactured, the company's continuous product range consisted of steel nails, cut nails, special nails, upholstery nails and drawing pins. Six years later, the focus shifted to the steel shelving range and the company was renamed META-Regalbau GmbH & Co. KG. In 1986, Joachim Loh integrated the warehouse technology expert into the Joachim Loh group of companies, in which many strong brands and companies are represented.
Growth, internationalization and spatial change
An important and central pillar of META is the continuous expansion of the company; the first subsidiary was founded in Austria as early as 1972. In the following years, the Czech Republic, Poland, England, Romania, America, Denmark and the Benelux countries followed. Most recently, additional sales offices were opened in France, Hungary, the Baltic States and South-East Europe. META has permanent sales partners in other countries who guarantee proximity to customers.
In addition, the warehouse technology specialist has undergone constant spatial changes, such as the final move to its current location in the Westring industrial estate (1969), the construction of the new office complex (until 2000) and the launch of Plant ll (2017) very close to the headquarters.
Innovations and collaborations
An important part of the company strategy is product innovation and the further development of existing warehouse solutions. As has been the case for over 125 years, during which the product range has been subject to constant change and development.
Strategically, META is geared towards a broad mix of industries: From individual shelving units for industrial or trade customers (sold via permanent specialist retail partners) to project business for large and multi-storey shelving systems. META is very successfully represented in many sectors, including industry, e-commerce, automotive, sanitary/electrical, office, etc.
In addition to its own product range, META sees partnerships as an important building block for the company's future development.
The Arnsberg-based warehouse technology specialist also offers individual customer solutions in the field of warehouse automation with conveyor technology under the name META-ILS (ILS = Innovative Logistic Solutions).
History - a brief overview
2024
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/2024_Rebranding_web.webp)
META in a new design
META presents itself in a new design: fresh, modern branding and an updated visual identity now reflect our further development and innovative strength.
2023
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/2023_Photovoltaik_web.webp)
Steel construction with solar energy
Our competence center in České Budějovice covers up to 50% of its energy requirements with its own photovoltaic system on the roof. This underlines our commitment to sustainable energy use.
2023
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/2023_Logo_wege_klimaneutral_web.webp)
On the way to becoming a climate-neutral company
META-Regalbau joins the project initiative "Pathways to a climate-neutral company". This commitment underlines our determined move to integrate sustainable practices and achieve our climate neutrality goals.
2021
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/2021_Baltic_web.webp)
We open a new sales office in Riga
This expansion strengthens our presence in the region and enables us to focus our products and services specifically on the Baltic market.
2021
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/2021_META-ILS_web.webp)
Foundation of META-ILS
META-ILS is the result of years of experience in various areas of project planning in order to offer the customer the conveyor technology or intralogistics solution that best meets their needs.
2021
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/2021_Jubiläum_web.webp)
META proudly celebrates its 125th anniversary
This significant event recognizes more than a century of innovation, growth and commitment and marks a milestone in our company's history.
2020
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/Serbien_web.webp)
Our new service office in Serbia begins operations
This expansion improves our customer service in the region and enables us to offer targeted support and individual solutions directly on site.
2019
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/19_META_MULTIFLOOR_grey.webp)
Product launch: META MULTIFLOOR shelving system
The META MULTIFLOOR impresses with its flexibility, diverse expansion options and impressive cost efficiency.
2019
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/2019_Benelux_web.webp)
We establish our eighth subsidiary, META Benelux
This new branch expands our presence in Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg and offers customized solutions for the Benelux market.
2019
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/Frankreich_Ungarn_web.webp)
We establish new sales offices in France and Hungary
This expansion strengthens our market position in both countries and enables us to tailor our products and services to local needs.
2018
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/2018_META_Calc_re_web.webp)
META Calc goes online
The relaunch of META Calc as an online configurator has enabled individual configurations directly via the internet browser at metacalc.meta-online.com since 2018. This tool offers user-friendly and flexible planning options for our customers.
2018
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/Spanien_web.webp)
We open a new sales office in Spain
This foundation marks an important step in our expansion and enables us to focus our products and services specifically on the Spanish market.
2017
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/2017_META_Firmengebäude neutral_web.webp)
Plant II in Arnsberg goes into operation
This new location close to our headquarters increases our capacity and improves our efficiency in order to respond even better to the needs of our customers.
2015
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/2015_Werk_Tschechien_Web.webp)
Opening of the steel construction competence center in Budweis
The competence center for steel construction is now open at the new location in České Budějovice, Czech Republic. This modern location strengthens our expertise in steel construction solutions and offers innovative concepts for demanding projects.
2013
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/Nordische_Staaten_web.webp)
We found the seventh META subsidiary
META Nordic. This new branch strengthens our presence in Denmark and offers customized storage solutions for the Nordic market.
2013
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/2013_USA_web.webp)
We launch our first overseas activities and establish our sixth subsidiary in the USA
META Storage Solutions Inc. in Atlanta. This move expands our international reach and presence in the North American market.
2012
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/2012_PCon_web.webp)
We launch pCon.planner in March
A 3D planning tool that enables our customers to visualize and plan their projects precisely and clearly based on our order catalog.
2012
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/2012_META Calc_web.webp)
META Calc is introduced
Our new calculation program makes it much easier to prepare quotations. It enables fast, precise calculations and optimizes the ordering process.
2011
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/2011_Rumänien_web.webp)
Foundation of the fifth META subsidiary in Romania
META Sisteme de Rafturi S.R.L. This new branch expands our presence in Eastern Europe and offers customized storage solutions for the Romanian market.
2008
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/2008_Stabsuebergabe_web.webp)
In November, the JLU Group hands over the reins to the next generation
Sebastian Loh takes over responsibility from his father Joachim Loh. This change marks an important step in the company's succession and future direction.
2008
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/2008_GB_web.webp)
Foundation of the fourth META subsidiary in Great Britain
META Storage Systems UK Ltd. this new subsidiary strengthens our presence in the UK market and offers innovative storage solutions for our local customers.
2007
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/2007_web.webp)
Foundation of the shelf inspection department
The creation of the Shelf Inspection department marks a significant step for META. This new department will focus on the regular inspection and maintenance of racking systems to ensure the highest safety and quality standards.
2004
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/2004_schweiÃer_web.webp)
Establishment of META Czech Republic as a competence center for steel construction
The establishment of META Czech Republic as a competence center for steel construction is completed. This strengthens META's own expertise and expands its capacities in the field of steel construction so that it can continue to offer innovative solutions for demanding projects.
2003
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/2003_web.webp)
The Dellwig plant is closed in December
This step marks the end of an important phase in our company's history and heralds a refocusing of our resources on future projects.
2002
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/2002_Polen_web.webp)
Foundation of the third META subsidiary in Poland
META Systemy Magazynowania Sp. z o.o. This new subsidiary expands our presence in Poland and offers innovative storage solutions for the growing market.
2000
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/e-commerce_web.webp)
First e-commerce system in Bad Hersfeld
The first e-commerce facility in Bad Hersfeld is completed. This state-of-the-art facility optimizes our logistics processes and strengthens our ability to meet customer requirements quickly and efficiently.
2000
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/schluesseluebergabe_web.webp)
"Open day"
In May, META invites you to an "Open Day" to inaugurate the new office building. Visitors can tour the modern premises and learn more about our expanded capabilities.
2000
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/07_META_SPEED-RACK_Weitspannregale.webp)
Product launch: META SPEED-RACK wide-span racks
META SPEED-RACK is a plug-in wide-span rack that offers large-area storage options for bulky parts and particularly large and heavy items.
2000
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/2000_Tschechien_web.webp)
Foundation of the second META subsidiary in the Czech Republic
META skladovaci technika s.r.o. This new unit includes its own production and strengthens our presence in Central Eastern Europe with innovative storage solutions.
1999
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/05_META_COMPACT_Steckregale.webp)
Product launch: META COMPACT office shelves
META COMPACT is the ideal office shelf for the orderly storage of files, folders and documents.
1998
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/1998_internet_web.webp)
META launches first website
META launches its first website at www.meta-online.de. This new platform provides comprehensive information on our products and services and improves online presence and customer communication.
1998
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/1998_rohbau_web.webp)
Shell construction of the new office building in Arnsberg begins
The shell for the new office building in Arnsberg will start in September. This project represents a significant step forward in our spatial expansion and will significantly improve the working environment.
1998
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/11_META_MULTISTRONG_MEDIUM.webp)
Product launch: META MULTISTRONG L/M cantilever racks
META MULTISTRONG is the practical solution for long goods storage, suitable for light as well as heavy and medium-heavy long goods up to heavy profiles and sheet goods.
1998
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/09_META_MULTIPAL_Palettenregale.webp)
Product launch: META MULTIPAL pallet racks
META MULTIPAL is an efficient shelving solution for the efficient, organized and adaptable storage of pallets and piece goods.
1997
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/1997_web.webp)
Joachim Loh takes over Dellwig-Langschede plant
The Dellwig-Langschede plant of Thyssen Umformtechnik is taken over by Joachim Loh. This acquisition strengthens the company's position in the market and adds new production capacities and expertise to the portfolio.
1997
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/1997_Lotec_web.webp)
Foundation of Lotec Loh GmbH & Co. KG
On February 2, 1997, the "Toolmaking" department becomes an independent company, Lotec Loh GmbH & Co. KG. This step marks the foundation of a new, independent company with a focused range of products and services.
1996
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/1996_web-1.webp)
100 years of META
META celebrates 100 years of success from 1896 to 1996 with a big anniversary celebration on May 3. This significant event honors a century of innovative developments and company growth.
1996
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/1996_web.webp)
META is certified according to DIN EN ISO 9001
This certification confirms our strict quality standards and efficient processes, underlining our commitment to the highest product and service quality.
1986
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/1986_JLU_web.webp)
Strong brands under one roof
META becomes part of the Joachim Loh Group, with Joachim Loh as the owner. This merger strengthens the market position through bundled expertise and shared resources.
1984
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/1984_web.webp)
Product launch: META MINI-RACK wide-span rack
META MINI-RACK is a wide-span rack that offers large-area storage options for bulky parts and particularly large and heavy items.
1982
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/1982_web.webp)
Upwards please
META now manufactures the first two-level multi-storey systems. This innovation improves space utilization and offers an efficient solution for demanding storage requirements.
1980
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/01_META_CLIP_Steckregale.webp)
Product launch META CLIP boltless shelving units
META CLIP is a versatile shelving system consisting of a frame and shelves, which can be assembled without tools thanks to simple plug-in assembly.
1972
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/1972_Oesterreich_web.webp)
The first META branch in Austria
META-Lagertechnik Ges.m.b.H. is founded to offer innovative warehouse solutions and state-of-the-art technology for efficient warehouse management and logistics in the Austrian market.
1972
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/03_META_FIX_Schraubregale.webp)
Product launch META FIX bolted shelves
The META FIX shelving system is screwed together completely from the outside using an offset screwdriver.
1969
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/meta_logo_anfang_web.webp)
Allow me, META
The company is now called META-Regalbau GmbH & Co. KG. The focus is now on the production of shelving, which underlines the company's realignment and specialization.
1963
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/1987_web.webp)
A fundamental innovation
The company launches the first production of modular steel shelving. This innovation revolutionizes storage technology with flexible, adaptable and efficient shelving systems.
1919
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/1919_web-1.webp)
A new name
The company will now trade as Metall-Industrie GmbH. This renaming marks an important turning point and emphasizes the expanded capabilities and future direction of the company.
1913
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/1919_web.webp)
The first extension
A new cold rolling mill for strip iron is built. This plant significantly increases production capacity and quality, resulting in improved efficiency and competitiveness.
1896
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/1896_web_2.webp)
The origin of everything
In 1896, Caspar Schnettler and August Linneborn founded Caspar Schnettler & Co. Nagelfabrik, a company that soon became known for its quality and innovation in the field of upholstery nails, special nails and drawing board pins.
![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/Chronik_100Jahre_META_800x600.webp)
Chronicle up to the year 1996
Chronicle up to the year 1996
Discover the detailed chronicle of META's 100th anniversary in 1996
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![](https://www.meta-online.com/media/Chronik_125Jahre_META_800x600.webp)
Chronicle for the years 1996 - 2021
Chronicle for the years 1996 - 2021
The continuation of the company chronicle on the occasion of the 125th anniversary.