What Gressel does

GRESSEL AG is a Swiss precision engineering company headquartered in Aadorf, Switzerland, operating for approximately 100 years (since ~1924) with roughly 100 employees as a privately held, family-owned Aktiengesellschaft. The company designs and manufactures workpiece clamping systems (Spanntechnik) for CNC machining centers and automated production cells, with a portfolio spanning 5-axis vises (C5X, SC5X, Zentrischspanner C2.0/C3, grepos-5X), machine vises (gripos, grefors, S2, SC2.0, solinos), zero-point clamping systems (gre4doc, gredoc) with repeatability below 0.01 mm, multi-clamping solutions, clamping towers and pyramids, and the R-C2 robot-mounted workpiece automation module that enables unmanned 24/7 machining. The company also developed a proprietary pneumohydraulic aggregate purpose-built for its clamping tools.

The company serves CNC machining and manufacturing companies, automation integrators, and machine tool builders across the DACH region, Central Europe (Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland), Croatia, the UK, and Israel, with named reference customers including Syntegon (pharmaceutical filling equipment), Falser Maschinenbau (precision engineering with Heller HF 5500 / STS / R-C2 automated cell), Heller and STS as machine tool and automation platform partners, and AKM as a mid-market CNC machining user. GRESSEL generates revenue primarily through one-time sales of clamping systems and precision workholding products, distributed via a direct regional field sales engineer model (territory-assigned Vertriebstechniker), a network of distribution partners, automation integrators, and an online shop for standard hand tools and accessories. Pricing is not publicly disclosed; the commercial model emphasizes high-touch engagement including free on-site product testing at customer machines, live demonstrations, personal consultations, and an online configurator tool supporting parts lists and 3D CAD downloads. Operating under the Swissmem/GAV collective labor framework and ISO 9001:2015 certified, GRESSEL complements its clamping core with branded automation sub-brands (R-C2, Generation Automation) and a digital sub-brand (GRESSEL Digital).

Name

Gressel

Legal name

GRESSEL AG

Website

https://gressel.ch

Company type

Private

Founded year

1924

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

11–50 employees

Short description

GRESSEL AG is a family-owned Swiss manufacturer of precision workpiece clamping systems and automation modules for CNC machining centers, serving industrial customers across the DACH region, Central Europe, the UK, and Israel through direct field sales and automation integrators.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

CNC Workholding and Clamping Systems

NAICS

Cutting Tool and Machine Tool Accessory Manufacturing (333515)

SIC

Machine Tools, Metal Cutting Types (3541)

akta.pro primary industry

Metal Cutting Tools, Tooling & Workholding (Cutters, Inserts, Chucks, Fixtures) (IMAHADAB)

Keywords

• CNC clamping technology
• Workpiece clamping systems
• Zero-point clamping
• 5-axis machining vises
• Machine tool automation

Headquarters

HQ city

Aadorf

HQ country

Switzerland

HQ region

Europe

Offices1 record

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Personnel, Supply Chain, Operations, Technology or R&D, Marketing or Sales, Infrastructure

Revenue model

1. Clamping Systems and Precision Workholding Products: GRESSEL generates revenue through the sale of clamping systems, machine vises, automation components, and accessories. Products are sold directly through sales engineers, via an online shop for standard hand tools and accessories, and through a configurator tool. The company also offers a free catalog, suggesting a combination of standard catalog products and custom solutions.

Go-to-market motion2 records

Distribution channels4 records

Marketing channels5 records

Core offering

GRESSEL designs, manufactures, and sells precision workpiece clamping systems and automation solutions for CNC machining centers. The product portfolio covers 5-axis clamping vises (C5X, SC5X, C2.0, C3, grepos-5X), machine vises (gripos, grefors, S2, SC2.0, solinos), zero-point clamping systems (gre4doc, gredoc), multi-clamping solutions (D2, M1, multigrip), and the R-C2 automation module for unmanned 24/7 machining. Products are available in mechanical, hydraulic, and electric actuation variants and are sold to CNC machining and manufacturing companies across Europe and Israel.

Product overview

GRESSEL Spanntechnik is a Swiss precision clamping technology company offering a comprehensive portfolio of workholding solutions for CNC machining and automation. The product portfolio centers on 5-axis clamping vises (C5X, SC5X, C2.0, C3, grepos-5X), machine vises (gripos, grefors, S2, SC2.0, solinos), zero-point clamping systems (gre4doc, gredoc with modular building kit), multi-clamping solutions (D2 double vise, M1, multigrip), automation systems (R-C2 workpiece automation, pallet automation, vise automation), and clamping towers/pyramids. Products are available in mechanical, hydraulic, and electric actuation variants. The company also offers a product configurator tool and comprehensive jaw programs for diverse workpiece clamping applications.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• R-C2: Automation system for workpiece clamping, enabling automated loading/unloading of clamping devices for 24/7 manufacturing
• Generation Automation
• GRESSEL Digital
• GRESSEL Versprechen

Products and services

• 5-Achs Zentrischspanner C5X Centrically clamping 5-axis vise where both jaws move simultaneously toward the workpiece using the C2.0 jaw program; cost-effective solution for roughing operations (OP10) with high accessibility.
• 5-Achs Spanner SC5X 5-axis vise with fixed jaw and movable clamping jaw positionable on the guide rail; features quick-change jaws, precision clamping with draw-down effect up to 214 mm clamping height, and is available in mechanical and hydraulic versions with up to 50 kN (roughing) / 40 kN (precision) clamping force.
• Zentrischspanner C2.0 Centric clamping vise for rough workpiece clamping (OP10) with ball-bearing, preloaded, play-free spindle bearing sealed against chips; clamping force 25-50 kN depending on size.
• Zentrischspanner C3 Compact centric clamping vise with tool-free jaw quick-change system, low weight suited for automation, hardened jaws (HRC 54-56), and precision via draw-down effect.
• 5-Achs Kraft-Spanner grepos-5X 5-axis power clamping vise with mechanically force-amplified clamping, 160° lever quick-clamping, steppless clamping force 5-40 kN, and mechanically locked power cassette preventing power loss during roughing.
• E-Spanner grepos-5X-E Electrically operated version of the grepos-5X power clamping vise for automated clamping operations.
• Werkstück-Automation R-C2 Workpiece automation system for automated loading/unloading of clamping fixtures with R-C2 module for robots, adjustable clamping force 8-30 kN, and support for 6-sided complete machining via transfer station for unmanned production.
• Paletten-Automation Pallet automation solutions for automated workpiece supply to machining centers.
• Schraubstock-Automation Vise automation solutions enabling automated clamping operations in CNC machines.
• Grosshubspanner CLH Large-stroke hydraulic clamping vise for hydraulic workpiece automation with extended clamping range.
• Maschinenschraubstock gripos Machine vise with integrated force cassette in base body design; clamping force 4-40 kN, 160° lever quick-clamping, no spindle rotation during clamping, quick changeover via bayonet connection; available in 100, 125, and 160 mm widths.
• Maschinenschraubstock grefors Machine vise with angle drive operation, continuous force adjustment 4-60 kN, mechanical locking preventing clamping force loss, and span range expandable to 509 mm with body extension.
• Einfachspanner SC2.0 Simple clamp with fixed jaw for precision workpiece clamping (OP20), used for finishing operations with high accuracy requirements.
• Einfachspanner S2 Simple clamp vise with low profile and lightweight design, ±0.01 mm repeatability, ideal for pallet automation, with 160° lever quick-clamping.
• Nullpunkt-Spannsystem gre4doc Mechanical zero-point clamping system with hard-anodized aluminum base body, 17 kN draw-in force at 30 Nm torque, <0.005 mm repeatability, and 52x52 mm / 96x96 mm spacing compatible with other manufacturers.
• Nullpunkt-Spannsystem gre4doc Platten Zero-point clamping plates in various configurations: single 52x52 mm, single 96x96 mm, combined plates, and 5-axis elevation variants at 60 mm and 100 mm heights.
• Nullpunkt-Spannsystem gredoc Mechanical zero-point clamping system with low construction height (30 mm), 20 kN draw-in force, 65 kN holding force (M12), <0.01 mm repeatability, operated with 30 Nm torque wrench.
• Baukasten gredoc Modular gredoc building kit including consoles, multi-adapter plates, and gredoc clamping chuck for form clamping and deformation-sensitive workpieces.
• Doppelspanner D2 Double vise enabling simultaneous clamping of two workpieces, third-hand function with preload on rear slider, nickel-plated base body, and easy conversion to single vise by blocking rear slider.
• Mehrfachspanner M1 Multi-clamp system for clamping multiple round or cubic workpieces on one clamping rail, with hardened and ground teeth, max rail length 650 mm, suitable for 3, 4, and 5-axis machines.
• Schwenkbrücken Swing bridges for multi-sided clamping operations on machining centers.
• Aufspanntürme Hybridtechnologie Clamping towers with hybrid technology combining multiple clamping methods for optimized workpiece density and unmanned production.
• Keilspannelement KSE Wedge clamping element for efficient multi-clamping operations in series production.
• Spanntürme Clamping towers for 4-axis horizontal machining centers with integrated pallet changing; available in double-angle, triangle, cross, and cube configurations with stable hollow-body construction.
• 5-Achs Pyramiden 5-axis pyramids for multiple clamping in 5-axis machining centers; available in 2, 3, and 4-fold configurations with various angles and good accessibility for short tools.
• Hydraulische Einfach- und Doppelspanner Hydraulic single and double clamps for automated clamping, paired with GRESSEL's proprietary pneumo-hydraulic aggregate developed specifically for its clamping fixtures.
• Spannbacken Comprehensive jaw program including system jaws, top jaws, soft jaws (aluminum and steel), grip profile jaws, and tungsten carbide coated jaws for various clamping applications.
• Bohrmaschinenschraubstock ecopos Drill press vise available in 72, 80, 100, and 125 mm sizes with 0.8-5.5 kN clamping force range, sold through the GRESSEL online shop.
• Werkbankschraubstock AX/PS Bench vise with height-adjustable, 360° rotatable lifter for workshop equipment applications, sold through the GRESSEL online shop.
• Profilbiegeapparat HB Profile bending apparatus available in HB 10, HB 14, and HB 20 sizes for bending profiles in workshop settings, sold through the GRESSEL online shop.
• GRESSEL Konfigurator Online product configurator (in German and English) for selecting and customizing GRESSEL clamping solutions, allowing customers to download parts lists and 3D CAD data and share configurations via QR code.

Quantifiable outcome

• Unmanned 24/7 production capability with R-C2 automation and round storage systems
• +3 more outcomes

Named customers3 records

Segments3 records

Ideal customer profiles3 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Integration4 records

Feature6 records

Partnerships

Seven partnerships are on record, tiered core and minor.

• R-C2coreTechnology or IntegrationR-C2 is an automation partner specializing in workpiece clamping automation for machining centers. R-C2 develops the robot-mounted automation module that GRESSEL's clamping tools integrate with, enabling unmanned 24/7 production. R-C2 maintains its own website (r-c2.com) and is part of GRESSEL's automation ecosystem. GRESSEL supplies clamping components compatible with the R-C2 system.
• Generation AutomationcoreTechnology or IntegrationGeneration Automation (generation-automation.ch) is an automation partner that provides R-C2 automation solutions integrated with GRESSEL clamping technology. Listed as a partner on GRESSEL's website alongside R-C2.
• STS (Heller Group)coreTechnology or IntegrationSTS, a company of the Heller Group, provides round storage and robot automation systems that are combined with GRESSEL R-C2 clamping technology in automated manufacturing cells. STS's automation is featured in the Falser Maschinenbau customer case study.
• HellercoreTechnology or IntegrationHeller is a machine tool manufacturer providing 5-axis mill-turn machining centers (HF 5500) that integrate with GRESSEL clamping technology and STS automation. Featured in the Falser Maschinenbau automated manufacturing cell implementation.
• SwissmemminorOthersGRESSEL AG is a member of Swissmem, the Swiss association for the machine, electrical, and metal industries. GRESSEL is subject to the collective labor agreement (GAV) for the Swiss MEM industry.
• SwissmechanicminorOthersGRESSEL AG is a member of Swissmechanic, an employers', specialist, and professional association for medium-sized entrepreneurs in the machine, electrical, and metal industry based in Weinfelden TG.
• SBFI (Staatssekretariat für Bildung, Forschung und Innovation)minorOthersGRESSEL AG is a recognized training establishment (Lehrbetrieb) approved by the Swiss State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SBFI), enabling the company to train apprentices in polymechanics, production mechanics, and logistics.

Scale indicators4 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights5 records

Direct peers

• Kitagawa Europe: Japanese-origin workholding manufacturer serving the European market with chucks, vises, and zero-point clamping systems. Direct competitor in CNC workholding with comparable technology in clamping force and precision repeatability.
• Gerardi (Gerardi SpA): Italian manufacturer of workholding tooling including vises, zero-point systems, and multi-clamping solutions. Comparable product portfolio to Gressel in machine vises and modular clamping systems for CNC machining centers.
• Diebold Werkzeugfabrik: German precision workholding manufacturer offering zero-point clamping, shrink-fit chucks, and 5-axis clamping systems. Direct peer in high-precision workholding technology, particularly relevant for HSC and 5-axis machining customers similar to Gressel's target market.
• Forkardt (Hardinge Group): Workholding specialist offering chucks, clamping devices, and automation solutions for CNC turning and milling. Directly comparable to Gressel in machine vises and automated workholding, with broader geographic reach.
• Röhm (Werkzeugspanner): German manufacturer of clamping tools, chucks, and workholding products for drilling, milling, and turning. A long-established direct peer in machine vises, drill press vises, and force-clamping products that overlap Gressel's gripos, grefors, and bench-vise portfolio.
• SCHUNK: German global leader in workholding and clamping technology, including zero-point clamping systems (Vero-S), 5-axis vises, and automation grippers. Directly competes with Gressel across most product lines and is explicitly cross-compatible via Vero-S interface standards that Gressel supports.
• LANG Technik: German specialist in zero-point clamping systems and Makro·Grip workholding for 5-axis machining. Direct competitor to Gressel's gre4doc/gredoc zero-point systems, with the C2.0 centric clamp explicitly supporting LANG interfaces for interoperability.
• ALLMATIC-Jakob Spannsysteme: German manufacturer of clamping systems, zero-point systems, and automation solutions for CNC machining. Directly comparable product portfolio to Gressel, particularly in zero-point clamping and automated workholding for milling machines.
• Hainbuch: German specialist in workholding technology including stationary and rotating clamping systems, mandrels, and automation solutions. Directly competes with Gressel in precision workholding for turning and milling applications.

Emerging players

• Kosmek (Europe): Japanese manufacturer of zero-point clamping systems, pallet changers, and automation clamping solutions. Competes with Gressel's gre4doc/gredoc zero-point systems in the European market, particularly in pallet automation applications where Gressel also offers products.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses4 records

Competitive moat6 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• Facebookfacebook.com/gressel.ch
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/gresselag

Compliance1 record

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles6 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Gressel