Four generations of engineering excellence
Since 1940, Hermann Linden Maschinenfabrik GmbH & Co. KG in Marienheide has been developing and building mixing and kneading machines for the world.
Others sell machines. We deliver superiority in the process.
We are your partner for processes where standard solutions fail. Our strength lies in mastering materials of widely varying viscosities and in the process reliability of our machines.
The foundation of our success
Over eight decades of experience in critical mixing processes.
Years of mechanical engineering
Experience in critical mixing and kneading processes since 1940.
Generations of family business
Continuous growth and innovative strength.
Employees at the site
Design engineering, production, assembly and commissioning under one roof.
Made in Germany
Development, production and assembly at a single location.
Over 85 years in motion
From a small workshop in Marienheide to the 80-tonne kneader for Asia: a journey shaped by in-house production, process expertise and four generations of family business.
1940
Foundation
On 1 April, Hermann Linden founds his one-man business in Marienheide and begins converting hand-operated plastics presses into motor-driven presses.
1946
Start of kneading machine production
Production of kneading machines begins in 1946, laying the foundation for today's core competence.
1948 to 1949
The first factory building
The first 200 m² factory building is built in 1948. By 1949, 12 skilled workers are already employed and the first hand-operated laboratory kneaders are manufactured.
1950 to 1953
Planetary mixers and first trade fair
In 1950 the product range is extended to include planetary mixers; in 1951 the production area grows to 300 m². 1953 sees the first participation in ACHEMA in Frankfurt, the start of an international trade fair presence.
1962 to 1963
Technical management and the 500th machine
Ernst Hartkopf takes over technical management in 1962. The 500th machine is built in 1963.
1967 to 1972
The second generation
Johannes Löcher joins the company as commercial manager in 1967. In 1972 the production area grows to 2,000 m², and Hermann Linden hands the company over to the next generation: Ernst Hartkopf and Johannes Löcher become managing directors.
1985
Farewell to the founder
Hermann Linden dies on 12 April 1985. His life's work is carried on by the family.
1990 to 2000
Bigger and more digital
The first 3,000-litre kneader is built in 1990. Computer-aided design is introduced in 1996, followed by a modern ERP system in 2000.
2004
The third generation
Kirsten Schneider and Frank Hartkopf take over the company. Alexander Schneider and Frank Hartkopf become managing directors.
2006 to 2009
Expansion at the site
In 2006 the former Linden family home is converted into a modern office building. A new assembly hall and the trial laboratory are added in 2009.
2010
The largest kneader in the world
Delivery of the world's largest Linden kneader to Asia: 10,000 litres total volume, around 80 tonnes, almost 1,000 kW drive power.
2012
3D design and continuous modernisation
Start of 3D design. Since then, the machine park and company processes have been continuously renewed and improved in all areas.
2024 to 2025
The fourth generation
In 2024 Kirsten Schneider acquires all company shares and becomes sole owner. In 2025 Alexander Schneider becomes sole managing director; Tim Schneider takes over commercial management as authorised signatory, Robin Hombach technical management as authorised signatory.
Today
Over 85 years of experience
Experience, innovation and mechanical engineering expertise: with a strong tradition and a clear vision for the future, Linden develops the solutions of tomorrow.
From the idea to finished assembly and commissioning
Everything is created here in Marienheide. Design engineering, production, assembly: under one roof, from start to finish. That is Made in Germany as it should be.
Sustainability is not an add-on but an obligation
We act responsibly because it is the right thing to do. The EcoVadis award confirms our approach to ecological, economic and social issues.
We meet our customers where it counts
Interpack, ProSweets, Gulfood Manufacturing, Achema: at the major trade fairs we show what we can do. Direct exchange with process engineers and decision-makers worldwide.
Let's talk about your process challenges
Describe your task to us: we will advise you and offer you the opportunity to replicate your process together with us in our Technical Center.
