from left to right: Manfred Gattringer, site manager, Heinz Oberndorfer, mayor, Max Hiegelsberger, President of the Upper Austrian Parliament, and Paul Wimmer, CEO
from left to right: Manfred Gattringer, site manager, Heinz Oberndorfer, mayor, Max Hiegelsberger, President of the Upper Austrian Parliament, and Paul Wimmer, CEO

Meggenhofen, October 4, 2024 – AGROLAB Austria GmbH is scaling new heights with a 6.5 million euro investment in its Meggenhofen laboratory site. This expansion is not just a response to the growing need for specialized analytical methods, but a deliberate move towards innovation. With process-optimized solutions at the forefront, AGROLAB is positioning itself to meet the ever-pressing demands of its clients—reliably, efficiently, and with an eye firmly on the future.

Cutting-edge technology and sustainable infrastructure

AGROLAB Austria, originally founded in 1978 at the Bachmanning site before relocating to Meggenhofen in 2012, has steadily risen to become one of Austria’s leading names in environmental, water, and food analysis. With over 145,000 samples processed annually, the latest expansion has doubled its laboratory and office space to an impressive 3,000 square meters, making AGROLAB the largest private environmental laboratory in the country.

“This expansion has not only boosted the efficiency of our analyses but also greatly enhanced our customer service. Our clients now receive results faster and more reliably than ever,” says Managing Director Manfred Gattringer.

The newly expanded facilities include cutting-edge laboratory spaces, a high-tech high-bay warehouse, and vastly improved working conditions for employees. Sustainability was a cornerstone of the project: a 117 kWp photovoltaic system, energy-optimized building structures, and LED lighting are all contributing to reducing the company’s environmental footprint. Employee well-being has also been prioritized, with more natural light, full air conditioning, and expanded social areas ensuring a more comfortable work environment.

Strengthening the regional economy

The investment in AGROLAB's Meggenhofen site is not just a win for the company, but for the entire region. The expansion has created new jobs, providing a boost to the local economy and offering long-term opportunities for highly skilled professionals. "As a company, we feel deeply connected to Upper Austria, and we see this as our contribution to the region’s economic development," says Managing Director Manfred Gattringer, underscoring AGROLAB’s commitment to its roots while fostering growth and innovation.

Continuous growth through efficiency and innovation

Since AGROLAB GROUP’s acquisition of the Institute for Environmental Analysis in 2005, AGROLAB Austria has experienced remarkable growth. The workforce has expanded from just 28 employees to over 100, while turnover has surged from 2 million to over 14 million euros in 2023, with projections of reaching 15 million in 2024.

"Our goal remains to be a trusted partner for public and private clients, engineering firms, and other laboratories," says Managing Director Manfred Gattringer. "Continuous investment in cutting-edge technologies and process-optimized workflows is the cornerstone of our ongoing success."

Ceremonial opening with guests of honour

The new laboratory space was unveiled in a ceremonial opening, attended by a host of customers, employees, and distinguished guests. Among the dignitaries were Max Hiegelsperger, President of the Upper Austrian Parliament, Meggenhofen's Mayor Heinz Oberndorfer, Grieskirchen's Mayor Maria Pachner, State Parliament Member Florian Grünberger, and Dr. Paul Wimmer, Managing Partner of the AGROLAB GROUP. The event was a fitting celebration of AGROLAB's continued growth and its deep connections to the region.

About AGROLAB Austria GmbH

The company, founded in 1978, was taken over by the Europe-wide AGROLAB GROUP in 2001 (majority share) and in 2005 (entirely). With more than 2,600 employees at over 30 locations in Europe, the AGROLAB GROUP is one of the leading laboratory groups. AGROLAB was the first laboratory in Austria to introduce the industrial model of the division of labour in order to provide efficient and precise analysis services in the fields of environmental, water and food analysis.