For almost 100 years, Reichard had manufactured industrial machines which it sold throughout
Europe and North America. It enjoyed a reputation for high quality, technology leadership, and
excellent customer service. There were dozens of companies of all sizes who competed, one way or
another, in industrial machines in Europe. Reichard was one of the leaders in several segments. Each
division operated as a fairly autonomous profit centre. Corporate management, headquartered in
Frankfurt, operated mainly as a holding company.