In conversation with ... RUBBLE MASTER

How a pioneer in the circular economy is conquering the world: RUBBLE MASTER – Innovation from Linz

RUBBLE MASTER HMH GmbH, founded in Linz in 1991 and based in the Südpark industrial park in Linz-Pichling for nearly as long, is known for innovative, mobile crushing and screening technology in the recycling of mineral building materials and in the natural stone sector.

Most of the company’s more than 300 employees worldwide are based at the headquarters in Linz. The City of Linz’s Department of Economy and Innovation met with Werner Ammerer, Head of Global Marketing at the RM Group, to discuss the company, its future, and the Linz location.

Circular Economy and Innovative Spirit as the Company’s DNA

Ammerer states right from the start: “The company promotes the circular economy in the construction sector through efficient machinery and sees itself as a competent partner and expert in crushing and screening.

RUBBLE MASTER’s DNA is characterized by a spirit of innovation, efficiency, and the commitment to always be one step ahead—for customers, the environment, and society.” For the company, internationalization is a central component of its corporate philosophy.

With an export rate of 95 to 98 percent and over 100 trading partners worldwide, RUBBLE MASTER products are represented in more than 100 countries—from the Arabian Desert to Arctic Canada.

From an ancient idea to modern technology

According to Ammerer, the concept behind the technology that RUBBLE MASTER from Linz is bringing to the world is actually ancient and has existed for ages. “Turning large stones into small ones has always been an issue,” he notes. However, the company has reimagined it in a new and innovative way.

The founder and engineer, Mr. Gerald Hanisch (Image 2), recognized in the early 1990s that there were no suitable, compact machines for recycling construction waste. By developing special compact crushing plants for small construction companies and municipalities, RUBBLE MASTER became a pioneer in the circular economy. The goal was to reuse mineral building materials such as concrete or asphalt after demolition, thereby conserving resources and reducing the burden on the environment.

The combination of ecological and economic benefits—sensible recycling and economic value—continues to shape the company’s philosophy to this day. As a result, RUBBLE MASTER has not only shaped the European market but also collaborates with authorities worldwide to establish recycling standards, for example in Mexico and India.

Challenges and Successes in the International Market

“This global presence brings a variety of challenges, such as differing requirements and approaches to recycling, but also advantages like the ability to offset economic fluctuations in individual regions through international markets,” explains Ammerer as we discuss the geopolitical situation and local characteristics.

Competitors who had been building larger machines for years initially dismissed RUBBLE MASTER for a long time due to its compact dimensions, labeling it unnecessary. In the meantime, however, these machine types are already being imitated, and many ideas that were once ridiculed have become industry standards.

Linz Location: Quality, Expertise, and Future Prospects

RUBBLE MASTER is deeply rooted in Linz; this is where the company was founded, and a conscious decision was made to remain in Linz. Werner Ammerer explains: “The Upper Austria region, particularly the Linz area, is regarded as a hub for industry and mechanical engineering and offers a wealth of skilled workers with extensive expertise.”

Compared to competitors who manufacture in other regions, RUBBLE MASTER stands out thanks to the quality and innovative strength of Linz and is proud of this location. “Vocational training in Austria, especially in Upper Austria, is a major advantage and should continue to be developed in the future to keep pace with international developments, such as in the fields of digitalization and artificial intelligence,” Ammerer notes at the end of the conversation.

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