Growth and Diversification during the German “Economic Miracle”

With the introduction of the Selecta model series, Sartorius broke away from the design tradition of previous balances. The wooden housing gave way to a lighter, rounded light metal housing in line with the style of the time. The operating elements are all located on one level, simplifying handling. In addition, the user can only see one weighing pan, as the second weighing pan is concealed. However, with the Selecta, Sartorius had in fact taken up the technological development status of the pre-war era: Established technology with a new look. Initially, this did not affect sales, but as of the late 1950s and with the successful market entry of a new competitor, this became an increasing challenge.

In 1954, during the early phase of electronic balances, Sartorius manufactured the world's first serially produced electronic balance: the Electrono 1. The balance, which is based on electromagnetic force compensation (EMF), is particularly characterized by its lower susceptibility to vibrations, shorter weighing times and simplified readability. Due to its product design, the Electrono has also been dubbed the "Anhalter Bahnhof," after the famous train station in Berlin. However, the pioneering device remained a niche product in the product portfolio.

During the period of the economic miracle, Sartorius rapidly expanded its export business, which had already been an important pillar of the company. In addition to trade partners in Europe and the USA, and despite the Cold War, business contacts were also established in socialist countries in Eastern Europe and other parts of the world. The Selecta analytical balance becomes a bestseller, especially abroad, and significantly contributes to the economic stabilization of Sartorius during the economic miracle. Appropriately, the 100,000th analytical balance produced in 1958 is a Selecta.

Due to a steadily growing demand for filters, which were now also used for testing drinking water, Sartorius developed a "drawing machine" for the industrial production of membrane filters and ventured into completely new territory with its development. To this day, drawing machines are at the heart of the production of filter membranes. At that time, customers for the products included the food and beverage industries, laboratories and institutes of all kinds, health authorities and clinics. The membrane filter company thus developed into a substantial and rapidly growing enterprise.

At the end of 1967, the company's legal form was converted from a stock corporation to a limited liability company. At the end of the economic miracle years, Sartorius was able to look back at an impressive period of corporate growth. However, this period is also associated with the very successful market entry of a new competitor that established itself as the main competitor in the weighing sector. To increase its market presence and meet demand, the sales organization is continuously expanded, so that Sartorius already had trade relations in 130 countries in 1967. In addition, national and international industrial trade shows served as central points of contact.