SF Switch

What SF Switch does

SF Schalter GmbH is a German B2B manufacturer of electromechanical switches, potentiometers, and hybrid assemblies, headquartered in Sömmerda, Thuringia, and operating as part of the febana Group alongside febana Feinmechanische Bauelemente GmbH and MICROSTEP GmbH. Founded in 2012 as a joint venture with Seuffer GmbH, the company designs and produces a comprehensive switch portfolio — rotary, slide, toggle, network/power, optical, sensor, push-button, and steering column switches — built around in-house processes including resistance welding, ultrasonic metal welding (for copper and aluminum), ultrasonic plastic welding, pad printing, and thermotransfer labeling. Products are qualified to IEC 68 solder-tight standards with optional IP67 ratings, and the company maintains ISO 9001:2015 certification (valid through July 2028), VDE certification for product groups 636 and 665, and UL approval for the 636 power switch.

The company serves industrial OEM customers across at least eight verticals — contemporary automotive, vintage automotive, white goods/household appliances (including Miele), agricultural machinery, commercial vehicles, HVAC/climate technology, renewable energy, and switch cabinet manufacturing — plus medical technology via welding assemblies. Revenue is generated exclusively through direct B2B sales on a per-unit basis, combining standard catalog products with custom-engineered configurations, and includes end-of-production (EOP) lifecycle services that supply spare parts and manage inventory transitions through specialist distributors. Customer acquisition is sales-led and event-driven, driven by direct outreach, an online inquiry form, and trade show participation at SPS Nuremberg, IZB Wolfsburg, W3+ Fair Jena, and All About Automation Chemnitz, often co-exhibiting under the febana Group umbrella. Management consists of three Geschäftsführer (managing directors): Frank Siegel, Andreas Panse, and Mario Fiedler. The company is privately held with no disclosed venture funding.

Name

SF Switch

Legal name

SF Schalter GmbH

Website

https://sf-schalter.de

Company type

Private

Founded year

2012

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

1–10 employees

Short description

SF Schalter GmbH is a German B2B manufacturer of electromechanical switches, potentiometers, and hybrid electromechanical assemblies, serving industrial OEMs across automotive, white goods, commercial vehicles, agricultural machinery, and medical technology as part of the febana Group.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Headquarters

HQ city

Sömmerda

HQ country

Germany

HQ region

Europe

Offices1 record

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

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

Revenue model

1. Switch and Component Sales: SF Schalter GmbH generates revenue primarily through the manufacture and sale of electromechanical switches, potentiometers, and related components to industrial OEM customers. Products are sold as both standard catalog items and custom-designed components tailored to customer specifications. Revenue is generated on a per-unit basis with orders ranging from small to medium production volumes, including end-of-production (EOP) after-sales service and spare parts supply.

Go-to-market motion2 records

Distribution channels2 records

Marketing channels3 records

Core offering

SF Schalter GmbH designs, manufactures, and assembles electromechanical switches (rotary, slide, toggle, power, optical, sensor, push buttons, steering column switches) and potentiometers for industrial OEM applications. The company additionally provides value-added manufacturing services including resistance and ultrasonic welding assemblies, electromechanical and hybrid assemblies, component marking via pad printing and thermotransfer labeling, and end-of-production (EOP) lifecycle management services for spare parts continuity. Products are sold both as standard catalog items and as custom-designed components tailored to customer specifications, serving industries including automotive, white goods, commercial vehicles, agricultural machinery, HVAC, renewable energy, and medical technology.

Product overview

SF Schalter GmbH is a manufacturer of electromechanical switches and components, offering a comprehensive portfolio of switches (rotary, slide, toggle, power, optical, sensor, push buttons, steering column switches, potentiometers) and assembly services (welding, electromechanical, hybrid assemblies, component marking, EOP end-of-production service). The company operates as part of the febana Group and serves industries including automotive, commercial vehicles, agricultural machinery, white goods, climate technology, control cabinet construction, and renewable energy. The product portfolio centers on precision switches as core products, complemented by value-added assembly and lifecycle management services.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• Drehschalter (Rotary Switches) High-precision rotary switches designed for direct PCB mounting, available in 1- or 2-pole configurations with customizable stop, detent angle, rotor length, and number of switching levels. Series include 612 (space-optimized successor to 676), 644 (16mm diameter, 14mm height, solder-tight, optional IP67 waterproof), and 676 (post-adjustable stop, supporting interrupting and bridging switching modes). Used in industrial automation, automotive, and electronic equipment.
• Schiebeschalter (Slide Switches) Versatile slide switches available in 1- or 2-pole configurations with 2 to 6 switching positions, designed for direct PCB mounting with solder pins. Feature solder-tight construction per IEC 68, compact welded housing, and configurable actuator levers. Suitable for consumer electronics, automation technology, and telecommunications.
• Kippschalter (Toggle Switches) Reliable toggle switches available in 1- or multi-pole versions with multiple switching positions, designed for PCB and screw mounting. Feature high-quality contacts for long service life and switching reliability under demanding environmental conditions.
• Netzschalter (Power Switches) Reliable power switches for safely disconnecting electrical devices from the power grid. Includes 4-pole push switches and the model 636 with bridge contact technology for superior tactile feel, 17.5mm pitch dimension for easy row mounting, VDE and UL approved up to 16A, available for PCB snap-in mounting (1.5mm PCB) or frame mounting.
• Optische Schalter (Optical Switches) Light-controlled precision switches using light beams to initiate switching operations without direct contact. Feature robust construction, long service life, customizable coding, torque adjustment, and dust seals. Used in applications requiring contactless switching.
• Potentiometer (Rotary and Slide) Precision potentiometers in rotary and slide configurations with high-quality carbon construction. Feature linear deviation of less than 2%, high resistance stability, and long service life for precise control of electronic devices.
• Tipptaster (Push Buttons) Tactile push buttons for precise switching between on and off states with clear, tangible switching point. Include the 645 Sigmatast (IP67 rated for waterproof protection and modular pitch applications) and the award-winning model 663 with ergonomic design and integrated LED status indicator with custom labeling capability.
• Lenkstockschalter (Column Switches) Steering column levers for controlling lights, turn signals, and windshield wipers in vehicles, as well as precise control of operating modes in machines and systems. Feature robust, durable construction for demanding environments in automotive and industrial applications.
• Sensorschalter (Sensor Switches) Contactless sensor switches using advanced sensor technology for touch or proximity activation. Offer hygienic operation, minimal maintenance, and versatile applications in building automation, lighting control, and industrial automation.
• Schweißbaugruppen (Welding Assemblies) Professional welding solutions including resistance welding, ultrasonic welding of metals (copper, aluminum producing metallurgically pure bonds), and ultrasonic welding of thermoplastics. Eliminates the need for additional fasteners, reducing cost, size, and weight of assemblies. Applied in automotive, medical technology, device manufacturing, and food packaging sealing.
• Elektromechanische Baugruppen (Electromechanical Assemblies) Custom manufacturing solutions for complex electromechanical assemblies from concept to series production. Includes prototyping, ISO 9001:2015 certified quality management, VDE and UL certifications. Used across automotive, white goods, commercial vehicles, and industrial automation.
• Hybridbaugruppen (Hybrid Assemblies) Electromechanical connector and hybrid assemblies combining components such as connectors and sensor housings for applications in washing machines, commercial vehicles, and specialized industrial applications. Include self-sealing hybrid assemblies and heatable plastic parts.
• Bauteilkennzeichnung (Component Marking) Component marking and labeling solutions using pad printing (suitable for complex geometries and curved/uneven surfaces) and label application via thermotransfer printing for contrast-rich, durable labels. Enables printing of symbols, logos, barcodes, QR codes, and serial numbers for clear identification and traceability. Printers are integrated directly into assembly lines to save production steps.
• EOP End of Production Service End-of-Production service managing product lifecycle transitions, including inventory management, aftermarket fulfillment, production equipment transfer, and alternative distribution channel access for legacy products. Includes after-sales spare parts supply for the free spare parts market to maintain continuity for installed base customers.
• DK37 Gehäuse und Deckel (DK37 Housing and Lid Components) DK37 type housing and lid components for a leading industrial measurement technology company, manufactured using newly acquired capabilities including a modern extraction system and high-precision bushing pressing technology.

Quantifiable outcome

• Components manufactured to IEC 68 solder-tight specification, with optional IP67 waterproof rating on selected switch series.
• +2 more outcomes

Named customers3 records

Segments10 records

Ideal customer profiles4 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature6 records

Partnerships

Seven partnerships are on record, tiered strategic, supporting, minor and core.

• North African Local Production PartnersstrategicStrategic or Co-development Partner · 23 August 2024SF Schalter GmbH is building a second complementary production network in North Africa through partnerships with local companies for the manufacturing of plastic, rubber, and stamped parts. This strategic expansion aims to optimize production of components, leverage synergies through new partnerships, advance internationalization, and access new markets in North Africa and French-speaking regions.
• Brandmediale WERBEAGENTURsupportingGTM or Marketing PartnerBrandmediale WERBEAGENTUR is a marketing and advertising agency that supports SF Schalter GmbH with the design and execution of trade show booths and marketing materials. The agency helped create tailored booth concepts and clear messaging for different target audiences at various trade shows in 2024.
• at – automotive thüringen e.V.supportingGTM or Marketing Partnerat – automotive thuringen e.V. is an industry association for the automotive sector in Thuringia. SF Schalter GmbH collaborates with the association as part of its industry presence and marketing activities, including participation at trade shows.
• Messebau BEYERminorImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerMessebau BEYER is a trade show construction company that supported SF Schalter GmbH in adapting its trade show booth designs and setups for different target audiences at various trade shows in 2024.
• febana Feinmechanische Bauelemente GmbHcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerSF Schalter GmbH is a subsidiary of the febana Group and operates in close collaboration with febana Feinmechanische Bauelemente GmbH and MICROSTEP GmbH. Together the group demonstrates comprehensive manufacturing depth, combining fine mechanical components, drive systems (stepper motors, linear actuators), and precision switch technology to meet demanding automation requirements.
• MICROSTEP GmbHcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerMICROSTEP GmbH, a febana Group company specializing in stepper motors and linear actuators, co-exhibits with SF Schalter at trade shows. The two companies together demonstrate manufacturing depth in drive systems and switch technology for industrial automation applications.
• Specialist Distributors and Wholesalers (Free Spare Parts Market)supportingChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorSF Schalter GmbH leverages established relationships with specialist distributors and wholesalers in the free spare parts market for the distribution of end-of-production (EOP) products through alternative channels, helping to open new markets.

Scale indicators6 records

Recent moves9 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Direct peers

• Marquardt GmbH: German-headquartered manufacturer of electromechanical switches, control panels, and automotive access systems. Highly comparable to SF Schalter as a German specialty switch maker supplying automotive, white-goods, and industrial OEMs with custom and standard electromechanical solutions.
• C&K Components: Global manufacturer of electromechanical switches (tactile, slide, rotary, toggle, key) serving automotive, industrial, and consumer markets. Comparable to SF Schalter on broad switch portfolio, miniaturization focus, and tier-1 OEM customer base across automotive and industrial automation.
• Bulgin (Elektron Technology): UK-based manufacturer of robust switches, connectors, and automation components for industrial, marine, and transportation markets. Comparable to SF Schalter on rugged-environment switches, panel-mount components, and IEC/IP-rated product offerings for harsh-environment applications.
• EAO AG: Swiss manufacturer of HMI components, switches, and panel indicators with strong presence in industrial automation, transportation, and machinery markets. Comparable to SF Schalter on rugged switches, custom panel solutions, and reliance on certifications (IEC, UL) for industrial OEM qualification.
• Knitter-Switch: German manufacturer of precision slide switches, toggle switches, rotary switches, and DIP switches with a similar specialization in miniature and PCB-mount electromechanical switches. Closely matches SF Schalter on switch portfolio and on serving European industrial and automotive OEMs with custom configurations.
• Schurter Group: Swiss-headquartered manufacturer of electromechanical switches, input systems, and circuit protection components serving industrial, medical, and automotive OEMs. Directly comparable to SF Schalter on switch portfolio (rotary, slide, tactile, power) and on serving tier-1 industrial customers with VDE/UL-certified components.
• APEM (IDEC Corporation): Manufacturer of HMI switches, tactile switches, and panel components serving industrial, medical, and transportation markets. Comparable to SF Schalter on switch variety (toggle, pushbutton, slide), certification focus (VDE, UL), and supply to rugged-environment applications.

Broad incumbents

• Omron Corporation: Global manufacturer of electromechanical and solid-state components, including switches, relays, and sensors, serving industrial automation, automotive, and medical markets. Comparable to SF Schalter on electromechanical switch portfolio and industrial OEM customer base but at substantially larger scale.
• Alps Alpine: Large Japanese manufacturer of switches, potentiometers, sensors, and electronic components across consumer, automotive, and industrial markets. Comparable to SF Schalter on potentiometer and switch portfolio but operates at significantly larger scale with broader end-market reach.
• TE Connectivity: Global manufacturer of connectivity and sensor solutions including switches, relays, and electromechanical components for automotive, industrial, and appliance markets. Comparable to SF Schalter on supplying switches into automotive and white-goods OEM platforms but with vastly broader product breadth.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat4 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/febana-gmbh

Compliance3 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles3 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 SF Switch