A location that makes a statement

An opening that was “far more than just an opening” for managing partner Franz Neuhofer: In mid-March, the Austrian baseboard and acoustic panel manufacturer FN Neuhofer did not simply officially commission a new plant for extruded core baseboards, but ventured into a new business segment: plastics processing. “A sign of courage, of further development—and of a clear determination to actively shape the future”—that is what the day of the official launch meant to the company’s CEO.

The family-owned company has invested around 10 million euros in the new facility in Pöndorf, just a few kilometers from its headquarters in Zell am Moos. There, the new FN XTRU-pro baseboard is manufactured on two production lines. The first profile rolled off the production line on November 20, 2025. In total, FN Neuhofer invested approximately 41 million euros in new plants, equipment, technologies, and employees during the 2025/2026 fiscal year.

The new plant is a milestone and “the third pillar in terms of product segments,” said Franz Neuhofer at the opening ceremony attended by around 200 guests, including numerous customers from abroad. “We have a high level of expertise here. And in this field, we will certainly be able to give our competitors a run for their money. We’re stepping on the gas.”

Originally, FN Neuhofer was on the market with moldings; three years ago, acoustic panels were added, which now account for around 40 percent of sales. Current capacity stands at 200 million running meters of moldings and 2.5 million acoustic panels per year. The new plant in Pöndorf can produce 12 million running meters of the new moldings per year. Plans are already in place to expand capacity.

The celebration was hosted by Franz Neuhofer’s daughter, Victoria Neuhofer. Joining via video link were his son Alexander, who works in the management of the NSP joint venture in the U.S., and his daughter Sarah, who is currently studying in Sweden.

Alluding to the company’s 376-year history, Neuhofer said: “I believe the next generation will manage this quite well, so that we can continue to run the company and drive it forward at many locations around the globe—whether it’s Europe or the U.S., or perhaps even Asia at some point. That’s still on my agenda.”

To underscore the company’s innovative strength, a humanoid robot named Unitree G1 was also brought onto the stage at the new plant. “This plant is not just a location,” said Victoria Neuhofer, “but a statement.”

The Governor (Minister-President) of Upper Austria, Mag. Thomas Stelzer (ÖVP), also attended the inauguration ceremony. “A company with 376 years of history that continues to tap into new business areas demonstrates true entrepreneurial spirit. FN Neuhofer shows how tradition and innovation work together—and is also proof of the strength, innovative power, and attractiveness of Upper Austria as a business location,” he said in his speech, drawing a connection to his home state. The company embodies everything that defines the region: “It’s courage, innovation, passion, a strong team, the ability to succeed internationally, and—what sets you apart—that it stays in the family.”

The new product manufactured in Pöndorf, the FN Xtru-pro core baseboard, consists of a sturdy MDF core that is fully encased in polypropylene using a process developed by FN Neuhofer that is unique worldwide. The baseboard is die-cut, which saves a lot of time during installation while ensuring precise workmanship. During die-cutting, the extruded PP film remains fully intact. The result is clean, closed corners. In addition, soft sealing lips ensure a tight connection to the wall and floor and provide protection against moisture and dust.

For the FN Turn-X (cubic), FN Round-X (rounded), FN Light-X (thin), and FN Swing-X (Old German/profiled) profiles, FN Neuhofer keeps a wide selection of solid colors in stock. Decors precisely matched to the flooring are custom-produced using in-house digital printing technology.

For the new production site, FN Neuhofer is repurposing a completely modernized building. From the outside—surrounded by woods and meadows like the headquarters—it’s not immediately apparent just how much innovative power it holds: The technological setup of the new production line was designed specifically for FN Neuhofer and is unique worldwide. “If I can drive innovation forward, I’ll be one of the first,” says Franz Neuhofer.

It is already clear that the company will not stop at the existing line; the plant offers plenty of space. And further openings are scheduled for this year: In October, the new production plant operated as a joint venture in Mullins, South Carolina, USA, will start up. And as early as May, FN Neuhofer will open a sales and logistics facility in Myslowice, Poland.

Its manager, Rafael Pospiech—whom Franz Neuhofer had spontaneously invited onto the stage during the celebration in Pöndorf—perhaps best expressed the spirit of innovation that is so often invoked: “This company is absolutely crazy.”