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At its long-established site in Fehring, southeastern Styria, where serial production of PCBs began in 1976, AT&S looked back on five decades of successful development. The celebrations focused on future opportunities, the importance of microelectronics for Europe, and the prospects of Austria as an industrial location. Among the distinguished guests were Styrian Governor Mario Kunasek, Deputy Governor Manuela Khom, Fehring Mayor Johann Winkelmaier, Federation of Austrian Industries President Georg Knill, Austrian Federal Economic Chamber Vice President Andreas Ritter, as well as numerous customers and representatives from the scientific and research communities.
Over the years, the Fehring site has evolved from a regional manufacturing operation into an important pillar of the global AT&S network. “For more than five decades, generations of employees have helped make innovation, quality, and technological excellence defining characteristics of our company,” said Michael Mertin, CEO of AT&S. “Today, the Fehring site stands as a prime example of how industrial heritage, highly skilled talent, and international competitiveness can successfully come together.”
Christopher Hermann, Managing Director of the AT&S Fehring site, added: “This anniversary is not only a milestone for our company. Above all, it is an opportunity to thank our employees, their families, and our partners and customers for their support and commitment.” The event offered guests valuable insights into the history of the facility, the achievements of the past decades, and the role the site plays within AT&S’s global growth and innovation strategy.
“Fifty years of innovation, entrepreneurial spirit, and technological excellence”
Georg Knill, President of the Federation of Austrian Industries, expressed his admiration for the achievements in Fehring: “Fifty years of the Fehring site represent fifty years of innovation, entrepreneurial spirit, and technological excellence. Companies such as AT&S demonstrate that Austria is not only a manufacturing location but also a technology hub of international significance. Microelectronics, printed circuit boards, semiconductor technologies, and digital applications are key technologies that will shape our future, from mobility and medical technology to artificial intelligence. Over the past decades, AT&S has shown how strong regional roots can be transformed into global market leadership.”
“A strong signal for the future”
Governor Mario Kunasek also congratulated the company on its anniversary: “These 50 years stand for innovation, vision, and the strength of our business location. The printed circuit boards manufactured in Fehring can be found in countless products that we use every day, from smartphones to modern vehicles. The company’s clear commitment to Styria and to the Fehring site through substantial investments sends a strong signal for the future. This success story demonstrates what can be achieved when businesses, policymakers, and public administration work together toward a common goal. The Province of Styria will continue to be a reliable partner for the business community and its future development. We will therefore consistently pursue our efforts to reduce regulation and bureaucracy to provide companies with the best possible framework conditions. I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to the management team and all employees on this special anniversary and wish AT&S continued success in the years ahead.”
For Deputy Governor Manuela Khom, the Fehring facility has been a cornerstone of the regional economy for generations: “AT&S Fehring is an indispensable employer and a key driver of economic development in southeastern Styria. Generations of employees have contributed their expertise, commitment, and innovative spirit to make this site what it is today. Not only the company itself, but also Styria, Austria, and Europe can rightfully be proud of this achievement.”
Fehring Mayor Johann Winkelmaier echoed these sentiments: “The municipality of Fehring and the Styrian Vulkanland region, Austria’s strongest region for skilled trades and craftsmanship, are proud to be home to AT&S Fehring, a highly successful and innovative industrial company. As a global leader in the production of high-end PCBs and IC Substrates, the AT&S Group is not only a major employer, but also a reliable partner to the municipality in many respects. On a personal note, as mayor, I look back with great satisfaction on nearly two decades of successful collaboration and partnership.”
