Be brave!

After all, this is a good time to start a metal weaving company, not least since the development of stainless steel by steel producer Krupp in 1912 triggered significant changes in the industry. Wire-drawers discover the material for themselves, which opens up new possibilities for weaving. Josef Kufferath is one of those to recognize this opportunity, instead of bronze or copper, he is keen to produce wire mesh from stainless material. He sees his market in the Rhenish mining industry around Düren, since stainless and therefore low-wear meshes show great promise for coal slurry dewatering. The idea is born, and Josef Kufferath takes his chance. Sounds simple, yet also brave! Düren is part of the Rhineland and therefore still under French occupation following the First World War. Since 1921, a customs border has also separated the Rhineland from the rest of the German Reich, which is bad for trade. The hyperinflation of 1923 caused great poverty, not least in the area around Düren, and by February 1924 separatists were also causing unrest here, demanding an independent Rhineland and even occupying the Düren town hall. Is this what a stable environment looks like? Definitely not!

Based on experience: Metal weavers for centuries
Company founder Josef Kufferath does not start the project without a great deal of thought. He comes from a family of metal weavers with a long tradition dating back to the 18th century: Johann Peter Kufferath (born 1744) is the oldest registered mold maker in the family, who from then on produces woven metal frames for the up-and-coming paper mills around Düren. The first paper mills in Düren can be traced back to the 16th century, and in the 18th century their number increases dramatically. Among other things, Kufferath’s paper molds determine the design of the watermark, which proves who produced the paper. The following generations continue the craft of mold making and also trade as “Gebrüder Kufferath” for a time. Later, however, the company becomes known as “Andreas Kufferath.” From 1895, Andreas Kufferath’s grandsons Karl and Richard Kufferath (Senior), Josef’s father, are entered in the commercial register.

The bosom of the family
In keeping with tradition, Josef Kufferath’s older brother Richard takes over “Andreas Kufferath” in 1920. Josef has a clear philosophy: ‘I make my own mark!’ In 1922, the father passes away, but not before leaving Josef several looms and an experienced metal weaver. Josef joins the company A. & W. Feld in Düren, which soon starts trading as “Feld & Kufferath” and launches a new branch of production: metal meshes. It is unclear exactly when Josef decides to found his own company. However, Josef and his brother Richard Kufferath (Jr.) officially started as “Gebr. Kufferath” on June 17, 1925, on a plot of land near their parents’ business in Mariaweiler—which remains the company headquarters to this day.

The family supports and monitors the project: Although Richard, who runs ‘Andreas Kufferath,’ remains behind the scenes operationally, he is evidently keeping a close eye on developments. He ensures Josef keeps him updated on business affairs and oversees his use of company funds. One year after the company is founded, Josef’s sister Anna also becomes a partner and Josef’s mother Gertrud guarantees the participation of his underage brother Friedrich (Fritz). “I doubt whether that was truly out of care,” remarks Dr. Stephan Kufferath. “In fact, the family probably wanted to keep an eye on the young founder.” There is no doubt that Josef also benefits practically from his father’s company: Josef Kufferath sources mesh and boards, and likely uses his connections to suppliers.

The road to independence
The business gets off to a successful start. As early as 1927, Josef Kufferath plans the construction of a new factory building, obtains quotations, and provides detailed cost estimates. The success he enjoys is seemingly enough for Josef to seize the opportunity and once again boldly leave the bosom of the family. As early as 1928, he sells his shares in his father’s company to his uncle for 60,000 Reichsmarks. This likely enables him to buy out his siblings. There is evidence that he manages Gebr. Kufferath alone from 1929 onward. However, part of the agreement is also that he is not allowed to supply any paper manufacturers, so as not to compete with “Andreas Kufferath.” As it turns out, this was never a problem for Josef and his successors: “There were enough chances and opportunities for technical weaves, and we always remained courageous,” explains Lara Kufferath. Andritz Kufferath GmbH, as Josef’s father’s company was last known, closed the plant in Mariaweiler in April 2025.