From a Garage to a Modern Company Headquarters
What started in 2000 with a small warehouse in a private home has grown over 25 years into a successful company operating across Austria. SOMMER Austria celebrates a quarter-century of innovation, courage, teamwork – and a touch of Dixieland.
The founding story itself reads like a chapter from an entrepreneur’s novel: with personal dedication, musical energy, and a strong team, a start-up in the Mühlviertel quickly became an established partner for garage door operators, front doors, and automation solutions.
Milestones Marked by Humanity
2000 – The Founding Year
Founded in the tranquil town of Ottensheim, SOMMER Ges.m.b.H. quickly became a go-to partner for dealers and customers across Austria. The first products were delivered straight from the garage, but the passion was there from the start
2010 – A New Home in Walding Business Park
Moving into the first large company building with a training and exhibition room marked the next step in growth. A focus on service, product training, and customer proximity was part of the DNA from the very beginning.
2016 – A Generational Change
With Mario and Stefan Koll taking over management, the next generation stepped up. The celebration at Vedahof, including a merit award from the state of Upper Austria for Erwin Koll, was a moment of recognition and a signal for the future.
2021 – New Building and Opening in Mühlkreisbahnstraße
The modern 900 m² new building made an architectural statement. The new showroom, Café SOMMER, and optimized warehouse and training spaces provide the perfect setting for the future.
People at the Center
A key factor in SOMMER Austria’s success is its team. Many employees have been part of the journey for years – some since day one. Whether in the back office, service, warehouse, or technical department, the team spirit is characterized by respect, loyalty, and the true SOMMER spirit.
A special anecdote is “Grandma’s Wednesday Cake”: for years, Erwin Koll’s mother would bring a homemade cake to the company every Wednesday – a symbol of togetherness, warmth, and humanity.
Technological Development & Customer Proximity
In recent years, SOMMER Austria has consistently advanced:
- Establishing its own torsion spring assembly
- Expanding the product portfolio (ROMA, GROKE, industrial doors)
- Enhancing customer service and training offerings
- Integrating a warehouse shuttle system for greater efficiency
- Building a strong social media presence and modern communication
2022 was the most successful year in the company’s history, a result of consistency, innovative strength, and a clear customer focus.
Commitment Beyond Business
SOMMER Austria takes responsibility beyond day-to-day business by:
- Supporting local sports clubs (football, golf, tennis)
- Promoting cultural events and cabaret (e.g., with KUIWA)
- Donating to families in need instead of giving customer gifts
- Participating in trade fairs like R+T Stuttgart and BAU Munich
The company lives by the principle that business success and social responsibility go hand in hand.
25 Years – And Still Going Strong
A quarter-century of SOMMER Austria is more than a success story – it is a testament to entrepreneurial spirit, reliability, and humanity. Looking ahead, one thing is certain: this success story will continue, with heart, mind, and a promise you can count on.
Congratulations, SOMMER Austria!