US-headquartered equipment manufacturer Crown is celebrating its 40th anniversary of European manufacturing, which began with the opening of its site in Roding, Germany in 1986.

Now a major production hub for Crown, the German operation has continued to expand since its opening and currently provides products for the company for markets around the globe.

As a vertically integrated company, Crown produces up to 85% of its own forklift components. 

Ken Dufford, vice president Europe with Crown says of the anniversary: “Forty years in Roding means 40 years of continuous progress, from local innovation and modern manufacturing processes to solutions for a global market”.

Since being launched, Crown Europe has opened a second production facility in Roding which also includes a 20m high glass tower, where new vehicles undergo comprehensive testing. In 2025, Crown Europe also opened the Crown Training and Development Centre (TDC) in Roding to offer hands-on training in forklift and crane operation, as well as advanced manufacturing techniques. 

This year Crown recognised 32 employees in Roding for 25 years or more of service, including Mario Kulzer, plant manager. 

“To me, it’s a real success story that we started in 1986 with 50 employees and have grown to the size of what we are today,” Kulzer says. "This shows that Crown is growing steadily and sustainably, and that our products, solutions and services have consistently been in demand.”