In 2007, Wacker Corporation will celebrate its 50th anniversary in the United States. While the company’s roots date back to 1848 Germany, the opening of the U.S. operation for the family-owned manufacturer was a true milestone.
In 1957, brothers Peter and Hermann Wacker had the foresight to bring a growing German construction equipment manufacturing business to the community of Hartford, Wis. This grassroots operation was successfully run by three employees and offered one product — Hermann Wacker’s soil compaction invention…the Rammer.
The brothers’ hard work and dedication did not go unnoticed by contractors and equipment distributors. The rammer’s reputation quickly skyrocketed in the United States and in 1958 land was acquired for a new 21,600 sq. ft. office, warehouse and production facility. Today, Hartford still has a Wacker Drive, named after the company.
In 1986, Wacker Corporation moved to a new facility in Menomonee Falls, Wis. This facility has been expanded numerous times and currently includes a 336,500 sq. ft. manufacturing and R&D facility, 41,500 sq. ft. corporate headquarters, 63,500 sq. ft. Visitor & Training Center, plus a 167,000 sq. ft. logistics center that is located 5 mi. away in Germantown, Wis.
All areas of Wacker Corporation have seen extensive growth over the years. Besides the company’s signature vibratory rammer, the United States operation is responsible for the manufacturing of all vibratory walk-behind and ride-on rollers, trash pumps, portable and mobile generators, and walk-behind and ride-on trowels. Wacker Corporation currently markets more than 150 models in five strategic business fields. Those original three employees have increased to more than 650 nationwide.
In 2006, Wacker Corporation made its first acquisition with the purchase of Ground Heaters Inc.
Wacker Corporation’s brand core values: reliable, trustworthy, accessible and responsive have been the company’s foundation for 50 years. Throughout the year Wacker Corporation will celebrate these values, the products and customer support programs.
