Perfection down to the finest detail: a feel-good bathroom.

Division Heating Technology
and Sanitary Equipment
Division Kitchens and Refrigeration
Division Steel Technology
Division Windows and Doors
Logistics
AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG
Romanshornerstrasse 4
P.O. Box 134
CH-9320 Arbon
Phone +41 71 447 41 41
Fax +41 71 447 45 88
afgworld@afg.ch
www.afg.ch
H e a t i n g Te c h n o l o g y
H e a t i n g Te c h n o l o g y a n d
S a n i t a r y E q u i p m e n t
H e a t i n g Te c h n o l o g y
H e a t i n g Te c h n o l o g y
K i t c h e n s
a n d R e f r i g e r a t i o n
K i t c h e n s
S t e e l T e c h n o l o g y
W i n d o w s a n d D o o r s
L o g i s t i c s
L o g i s t i c s
T h e m a g a z i n e o f A F G A r b o n i a - F o r s t e r - H o l d i n g A G M a y 2 0 0 6
AFG ARENA Page 4
A sports facility
in our name
■ Heating Technology and Sanitary Equipment Pages 14 – 19
■ Kitchens and Refrigeration Pages 20 – 27
■ Steel Technology Pages 28 – 35
■ Windows and Doors Pages 36 – 41
Kitchen Center Page 21
Three strong
kitchen brands
under one roof
Forster unico Page 29
A world
innovation from
100% steel

Contents
■ In a nutshell
News ................................................................................ 2
■ Focus
Welcome to the AFG ARENA ............................................. 4
■ AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG
Construction of the new Corporate Center ....................... 10
A new dimension for AFG ................................................. 11
19th General Meeting: rockets ignited! ............................. 12
■ Heating Technology and Sanitary Equipment
Outstanding design expertise ............................................ 15
Selective presence at the pulse of the markets ................... 16
Kermi: number 1 by far ..................................................... 18
New Marketing Manager, Switzerland for Arbonia and Prolux 19
■ Kitchens and Refrigeration
Three strong kitchen brands under one roof ...................... 21
Forster and Piatti launch their KITCHEN&YOU courses ....... 22
Awarded presence ............................................................ 24
Book tip: exquisite kitchens ............................................... 24
The Capovino built-in wine cooler ....................................... 25
Miele Kitchens: putting variety on the agenda ................... 26
■ Steel Technology
Forster unico – a world innovation .................................... 29
The final cut ...................................................................... 30
New brochure for precision steel tubes .............................. 30
Safety exhibition «Fiera Sicurezza», Milan ......................... 31
Forster thermfix light: the new freedom in facade construction 31
The Hallenstadion Zurich in a new light ............................. 32
By hook or by crook: precision steel tubes ......................... 32
Forster fuego light: 90 minutes fire resistance .................... 33
Extending the value creation chain .................................... 34
Pure appeal ....................................................................... 35
New: U-Value Calculator ................................................... 35
■ Windows and Doors
EgoKiefer launches a new world of windows: XL ® ............. 37
EgoKiefer’s new regional headquarters in Wallisellen ......... 38
Monument protection to order ......................................... 38
EgoKiefer goes big in St.Gallen ......................................... 39
Minergie ® as a label of quality ........................................... 40
Extension for the production facility at Altstätten East ....... 41
Impressum
AFG WORLD, the magazine of AFG Arbonia-Forster-
Holding AG, appears three times a year in four
languages in Switzerland, Germany and the Czech
Republic, as well as in other countries around the world.
Circulation 17,000 Ex.
Editorial
AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG
Redaktion AFG WORLD
P.O. Box 134
CH-9320 Arbon
Phone +41 71 447 41 41
Fax +41 71 447 45 88
afgworld@afg.ch
Production
Concept/Layout/Text editorial:
Erat, Thoma & Herzog Werbeagentur AG BSW,
CH-9401 Rorschach
Printers: Druckerei Flawil AG, 9230 Flawil
Title picture: Visualisation architron
A new image for AFG
Dear Ladies, Gentlemen,
Dear employees
For many years now, AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG (AFG)
has been publishing an employee magazine called VIVA.
This has been an information channel through which it has
advised its personnel of the company’s news and latest events.
Since I joined in September 2003, some things at AFG have
changed. Not only have sales almost doubled to well exceed
CHF 1 billion, the acquisition of several prominent companies
have made us bigger, stronger and more international. Many
of our customers know us simply from their own sector.
We have developed from the so-called «mixed product shop»
to become a worldwide manufacturer of construction
equipment. The fact that as a leading manufacturer of
construction equipment, we also make and sell many
other products is overlooked far more frequently than one
would think.
From now on, we want to reach not only our personnel, but
open up the boundaries and reach our wordwide customers
too. The world has become our market – the AFG WORLD.
Today, AFG is engaged in some 80 countries and in 50 of
those, has its own organisations or works in partnership with
others. Now its time for you to know how AFG has
developed. Above all, we want to show you our broad
product range and keep you updated with new innovations
as they happen. Innovations, you see, are of paramount
importance to us.
And to make sure all our AFG WORLD readers don’t get
bored with details relating to each company division, we
publish a series of magazines called AFG INSIDE, as a
supplement for each of our companies. AFG INSIDE will
publish information that is of interest to only a limited reader
group and relates to individual AFG companies.
We have not only given our new customer and employee
magazine a new name, it will also appear in a new guise. We
are changing neither our company strategy nor our company
philosophy: what we want for our customers is to make top
quality products on time and at attractive prices. This way
we will demonstrate our marketability, enhance customer
proximity and improve our partners’ competitive edge.
This includes – in line with our concept – a timely and
modern market presence. Marketing, advertising and PR
are constant companions of a company’s routine activities –
the same goes for AFG. The front page of our fresh new
employee and customer magazine, AFG WORLD, shows
the AFG ARENA, which will be complete and ready for use
on the outskirts of St.Gallen by mid-2008.
P re l u d e
Besides increasing its innovative strength, AFG has also
accelerated its marketing endeavours in recent years.
Authorising use of the name AFG ARENA is an investment –
certainly not an expenditure – in our proprietary brands
of AFG, Kermi, Arbonia, Prolux, Schmidlin ASCO Swiss,
Forster Kitchens and Forster Refrigeration, Miele Kitchens
(labeled «Miele Die Küche» in German-speaking countries),
Piatti Kitchens, Forster Profile Systems and Forster Precision
Steel Tubes, EgoKiefer Windows and Doors, as well as in
our two logistics companies Asta and Gächter.
We want to advertise our proprietary brand AFG, the brands
of our subsidiaries and their quality products. Sports and AFG
ARENA are key to our marketing initiatives in Switzerland and
sit high on the agenda. However, we don’t want to focus
solely on these measures, but rather couple a wide-ranging
advertising package with both national and international
impact. Over time, of course, we shall expect this to have a
positive impact on our image and the sale of AFG products.
We regard AFG WORLD as another marketing tool. We want
the information we give you on our products and innovations
to be more direct, more comprehensive and more current.
We shall also keep you up-to-date on AFG’s lesser known
divisions. Our employees, customers and suppliers, as well as
selected circles and the public make up our most important
target group. Find inspiration in AFG WORLD. We would be
grateful to receive any ideas and suggestions you may have
about this publication. On that note, I remain
Yours sincerely
Dr. Edgar Oehler
Chairman of the Board of Directors and CEO

news
2 I n a n u t s h e l l
100% steel
Forster unico is a completely new profile system with fittings
and accessories for doors, windows and exterior glazing.
The profiles designed as a single-chamber system are heat-
insulated and effortlessly match the insulation values
achieved by conventional systems. The basic profile consists
of 100% recyclable steel and contains no plastic insulators.
This makes Forster unico extremely environmentally-friendly.
This innovation, featuring a unique latticework finish, is
lightweight and simplifies handling in the workshop and
during installation. Forster unico therefore meets the most
stringent technical and physical requirements – and looks
fantastic too. «
Showing its colours
Kermi is presenting a new radiator colour concept
based on current trends in the world of living rooms
and bathrooms. Edition Soft comprises seven carefully
selected pastel shades – their soft effect being enhanced by the
quality matt finish. Edition Nature is inspired by the freshness
and expressiveness of water, plants and stone. The warmtoned,
powerful colours in Edition Ethno grasp the colours
of exotic cultures, harmonising closely with natural materials.
As an alternative, Edition Metallic reflects on the rather
technical colour world of the 1950’s and shows this retro-trend
in four brilliant metallic tones. These four Editions are
available for practically every radiator in the Creative radiator
and Kermi Decor ranges, as well as for most flat radiators,
convectors and heated walls. «
Multimedia in the kitchen
Lovers of sophisticated technology will go for the innovative
multimedia kitchen. Internet, TV and radio can be controlled
straight from the kitchen. This innovative solution will be
available from Forster and Piatti from the middle of the year. «
Special offer on air-conditioned cabinet
LongFresh fruit and vegetables: CHF 1860.– instead of CHF 2860.–
Vegetables, fruit and salad are sensitive, natural products. LongFresh provides the
ideal storage conditions and keeps goods fresh up to three to five times longer
than a conventional refrigerator.
LongFresh wine cabinet: CHF 1990.– instead of CHF 3490.–
Forster’s LongFresh will create the ideal conditions for your bottles of Grand Cru:
■ Constant temperature
■ Optimised humidity
■ Natural air exchange, like in a conventional old cellar
Please call the AFG Kitchen Service on +41 71 447 46 46 if you have
any questions or would like to place an order.
Arbonia Protect
For the first time, Arbonia is offering specifically for sensitive
hygiene applications, a durable anti-microbial radiator coating that
significantly reduces the risk of contamination. The function of this
surface coating unique to this area is based on silver’s germ-inhibiting
and deadening effect that has been well-established for centuries.
The metal is mixed with the coating in the form of an additive and offers
scientifically proven, reliable long-term protection against microorganisms
settling and spreading on the radiator’s surface. Contact for
people and pets alike, however, is completely harmless. «
Record
noise insulation
Based on EgoKiefer’s MPR2 plastic window, EgoKiefer has
developed a countersash window with unparalleled peak
values when it comes to noise insulation: with a proven
laboratory value of 56 decibels, the prototype has delivered
a result that is 20 decibels higher than the R’ W values of
conventional windows. This latest development further
evidences EgoKiefer’s expertise in noise insulation. «

© Visualisierung architron
4 F o c u s
Welcome
to the AFG ARENA
AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG (AFG) is lending its name to St.Gallen’s
new football stadium. From now on, the stadium will be called AFG ARENA.
Authorising the use of its name is a key component of AFG’s long-term
marketing activities. The decision to play godfather makes AFG a pioneer,
since this is the first time that the right to use a name has been authorised
on a scale of such magnitude and importance.
AFG has decided to acquire exclusive and comprehensive
marketing rights with regard to the name and logo of the
new stadium in St.Gallen, proclaiming for the first time AFG’s
strong presence in the worlds of both sport and culture. The
naming rights for the AFG ARENA will guarantee AFG even
greater media impact. It is however also a declaration of
allegiance to eastern Switzerland as an economic workplace
and location, the future significance of which cannot be
overstated. «This is a major step forward as we consistently
continue to build up the AFG brand, to spread its fame – as
well as that of its subsidiary companies – far and wide, to
increase its value and to emphasise above all our close ties
with the entire region of eastern Switzerland», said Dr. Edgar
Oehler, Chairman and CEO at AFG. In addition, the naming
rights take into account the long-term concept of sponsorship,
enabling the company to develop its competitive edge
optimally over a long period and over a broad field. «AFG’s
timing in taking this step is ideal, for with the construction of
the stadium, the new name AFG ARENA will impact all our
target groups.»
Official opening in summer 2008
Since November 2005, excavation activities at
the AFG ARENA site have been at full speed
ahead; by July of this year, some 500,000 cubic
meters of earth will have been removed. At the
same time, the foundation channels are also
being sealed. Wherever this work is complete,
the concrete is poured in and the first walls
emerge. A host of canalisation and installation
activities are also underway.
Since spring last year, extensive construction
work has been in progress on the St.Gallen-
Winkeln motorway junction and the extension
of the A1. The AFG ARENA is to have its own
approach and exit roads and is the lynchpin of
a far-reaching traffic concept.
Football will kick-off in the AFG ARENA by as
early as summer 2008. Ikea wants to open
its doors in October 2007, Jelmoli AG and its
tenants will follow suit in March 2008.

Pictures: Nicolas Senn
F o c u s
30th December 2005
12th January 2006
1st February 2006
7th March 2006
14th March 2006
Construction work on east Switzerland’s largest sports facility,
the AFG ARENA, began at the end of 2005. Drive on the A1
past the St.Gallen-Winkeln exit and you’ll be sure to see the
huge building site flanked by two striking 20 meter high
AFG ARENA towers, bearing all AFG brands and logos. The
stadium will be officially opened in summer 2008. By then,
public awareness of the AFG ARENA’s name will have
gradually established itself, as the brand grows to become a
household name. «The sooner the name is published and the
sooner the AFG brand is integrated into the name, the more
consistently the name of the new stadium name can be
communicated and firmly anchored in the consciousness of
the people», declared Dr. Edgar Oehler, referring to the
company’s collaboration from the earliest stages with the
operating company, Betriebs AG AFG ARENA.
The best of all solutions
The agreement covers the construction phase up to 2008
and then the first ten football seasons until mid-2008, with an
option of prolonging the agreement further. Dieter Froehlich,
Chairman of the Board of Directors at FC St.Gallen and Vice
President of Betriebs AG AFG ARENA stresses the importance
«The AFG ARENA is an important
step in emphasising our allegiance
to the region.»
of the partnership with AFG. This is why the new home
ground for St.Gallen’s football club will logically bear the
name AFG ARENA.
A common denominator
AFG, one of Europe’s leading manufacturer’s of construction
equipment, brings together a number of major product
brands such as Arbonia, Schmidlin ASCO Swiss and Prolux
(Heating Technology), Kermi (Heating Technology and Sanitary
Equipment), Forster (Precision Steel Tubes and Profile Systems),
Forster (Kitchens and Refrigeration), Miele Kitchens, Piatti
(Kitchens), EgoKiefer (Windows and Doors), Asta and Gächter
(Transport and Logistics). The design of the sponsoring
package has taken AFG’s multi-brand strategy into account.
© Visualisierung architron
The structure in figures
Building dimensions
50,000 m 2 site
915,000 m 3 construction volume
500,000 m 3 excavation
162,000 m 2 timbering
83,000 m 3 concrete
11,000 t steel
Construction costs
approx. CHF 300 m
Capacity
Maximum 14 ,000 sitting and 7,000 standing places
for Super League matches:
3,263 places in Sector A (main stand, north)
4,334 places in Sector B (east stand)
6,119 places in Sector C (south stand)
4,334 places in Sector D (west stand)
Maximum 18 ,050 sitting places for international matches
Leisure and shopping
20,500 m 2 shopping centre, Carrefour being the main
tenant (Jelmoli as investor)
13,500 m 2 IKEA furnishing house
2,000 m 2 restaurants
4,900 m 2 leisure centre
200 m 2 offices/administration
Parking area
Maximum 1,100 customer parking spaces in the
underground car park plus 200 additional adjoining ones
for Saturdays
150 separate spaces for two-wheel vehicles
Over 3 ,000 additional parking spaces (mainly for
use at football events) in St.Gallen’s Winkeln and Gossau
industrial area
7

F o c u s
1st April 2006
1st May 2006
© Visualisierung architron
In addition to the actual naming right of the stadium, the essential package
also includes the signage inside the stadium, the names of the stands, e.g.
«Piatti Stand» or «EgoKiefer Stand» – as well as VIP and stands for all the home
games played by FC St.Gallen. A show kitchen in the VIP area and the
comprehensive banner coverage in the AFG ARENA also provide an excellent
communication platform for the various product brands belonging to the
AFG concern. Right from its inception, the naming of the AFG ARENA was
planned as an integrated communication campaign. By combining branding,
sponsoring and communication initiatives, the aim is to link AFG permanently and
within a short time with the popular sport of football and to target a high level
of acceptance and impact for the AFG ARENA.
Pushing the umbrella brand name of AFG into the spotlight
The naming right initiative also kicks-off an extensive marketing program for the
umbrella brand of AFG, as well as the brands of its subsidiaries, and is a key theme
throughout the Group’s long-term marketing activities. «
«An extremely committed partner»
Bill B. Mistura
CEO of Betriebs AG AFG ARENA
What does the partnership with
AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG mean to you?
Bill B. Mistura: I am highly satisfied with the partnership and
proud to have found a strong, reliable and extremely
committed partner in AFG. I am delighted that this partner
is one of east Switzerland’s strongest companies that enjoys
a worldwide reputation.
How important is it to this partnership that AFG is an
east Swiss company?
Bill B. Mistura: It’s always a question of region and common
identity. Now, with AFG we will demonstrate what we
understand by this. The AFG ARENA is an unmistakable
symbol of confidence and belief in east Switzerland.
AFG has committed to FC St.Gallen as a Platinum Member
Sponsor and is the club’s major shareholder.
Bill B. Mistura: Put like this, the AFG ARENA is the logical
consequence to an outstanding partnership that is set to last.
Naming right partnerships are a matter of course in
other countries. How relevant is that?
Bill B. Mistura: As the stadium’s operator, we have to work
out where the funds will come from to sustain costefficiency.
Assigning the right to use a name is an interesting
way of consistently generating funds over a relatively long
period. In Germany, for example, they have known this for
some time.
Switzerland is perhaps not at quite the same stage.
The AFG ARENA is the first football stadium in the
country to bear the name of a company.
Bill B. Mistura: Yes, we’re playing the role of pioneer here.
And we’re proud of it too. «
9

10 AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG
A lot of freedom for new ideas: model of the new administration building, scheduled to open at the end of 2007
Construction of the new Corporate
Center: the first cut of the spade in
August 2006
AFG’s rapid growth has updated the long-existing plans to merge management and administrative
functions into one new, central Corporate Center. Construction of the AFG’s new Headquarters
behind the Forster Kitchen Center in Arbon (Canton Thurgau) will commence in August this year.
The Corporate Center will be ready for occupation in November/December 2007.
In recent months, AFG has acquired some 13 hectares of land
in Arbon’s agricultural zone, a portion of which will be used
for the land exchange. Around eight hectares have since been
converted into an industrial area.
The promising pace at which the project is progressing is
also down to the collaboration between the town of Arbon
and the Thurgau government, which enabled the swift and
non-bureaucratic land exchange and the change of use to
industrial land.
AFG will therefore have sufficient industrial land in the future to
be able to position all properties at the lake in the new industrial
Timeless elegance: the entrance area with its modern architecture is also an inspiration
area. The new Corporate Center, which will have striking,
large glass facades, is due for completion and occupation
towards the end of 2007. AFG, having developed over
the last two years into a billion Swiss Franc company, will
then have a functional, extremely appealing administration
building with a modern infrastructure that is fitting for its
size and prominence. The construction of this new Corporate
Center is also a sign of AFG’s clear commitment to the Arbon
location and to the important region of Oberthurgau, despite
its endeavours to become more international. «
A new dimension for AFG – heating,
ventilation and air-conditioning
The ability to develop innovative products is a key factor to AFG’s success. The recent acquisition
of Schmidlin ASCO Swiss AG of Zwingen (Canton Baselland), is another logical step for AFG towards
a full range of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning technology.
The integration of Schmidlin ASCO Swiss AG into the
Heating Technology and Sanitary Equipment division is
creating synergies for AFG with regard to developing new
market segments as well as achieving a higher market
penetration for the established product ranges via the
distribution channels both at home and abroad.
The product portfolio focuses on manufacturing underfloor
convectors, which besides fulfilling the conventional
heating function, are also suitable for room cooling, each
model having a specific interface with ventilation systems.
These product features are firstly important for the
Heating Technology and Sanitary Equipment division’s
strategy. They also satisfy the preconditions for the company
to move into the cooling/ventilation sector of building
technology. Although new to AFG, this area will play a key
role in the Group’s future strategic alignment. As well as the
existing, local radiant panel cooling systems, the acquisition,
building on the expertise in heating technology, is thus
creating far-reaching technical opportunities from local room
ventilation and cooling systems through to fully integrated,
apartment ventilation systems. The product range also
includes systems for heating halls and industrial properties.
Time for a new room comfort system
Building on its self-developed and purchased technologies
and the expertise it has garnered from its own areas of
heating, refrigeration, ventilation and windows, AFG is
developing a room comfort system that combines the core
skills of the Heating Technology and Sanitary Equipment
division, Windows and Doors division, as well as the
Refrigeration business unit. «As the climate continues to
change, the demands on working and living areas are getting
higher. The focus is very much on both ecological and health
considerations. The decisive steps have been taken and the
systems offered on the market are being successively extended.
Therein lies the goals of AFG’s continued and new
developments» says Dr. Edgar Oehler, Chairman and CEO. «
The requirements placed upon work and living areas are also increasing
from a climatic viewpoint. This situation is creating opportunities in the
new heating, ventilation and air-conditioning area

AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG
Dr. Edgar Oehler reported a successful business year 2005 at the General Meeting held on 21st April 2006
AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG:
rockets ignited!
The 19th Ordinary General Meeting of AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG held on 21st April 2006:
Reviewing a promising business year 2005 and looking forward to a successful future.
Dr. Edgar Oehler, Chairman of the Board of Directors and CEO
welcomed 533 shareholders to the 19th Ordinary General
Meeting of AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG, held on 21st
April 2006 in the packed-out Seeparksaal of Arbon (Canton
Thurgau). He also received over 100 guests from politics,
business and the community, including former Swiss Federal
Councillor Dr. Kurt Furgler, State Councillor Dr. Philipp Stähelin,
Government President Dr. Claudius Graf-Schelling, Government
Councillor Dr. Kaspar Schläpfer, Arbon’s new Mayor
Martin Klöti, former State Councillors Dr. h.c. Ernst Rüesch
and Franco Matossi, former National State Councillor Ernst
Mühlemann as well as Trudi Züllig-Grauer, widow of the
company’s founder Jakob Züllig-Grauer, who passed away
in 1999.
The Chairman and CEO first reflected on a good business
year 2005 for AFG:
Business Year 2005
During Business Year 2005, AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG
enhanced its market position as an international business
supplier. Net sales rose by 9.5% to CHF 1,124 billion.
With the exception of the heating and plumbing division
suffering under Germany’s weak building and equipment
economy, the divisions developed in line with the high
expectations. In view of dramatically increased acquisition
costs and the fierce competition, income developed
at various rates. The operating profit at EBIT level (profit
before interest and taxes) grew by 7.1% to CHF 72.8 million,
this being down to lower depreciation. The Group’s profit
rose by 4.6% to CHF 51.5 million.
13
Perspective
In 2005, AFG managed to grow stronger than its competitors
in its four product divisions of Heating Technology and
Sanitary Equipment, Kitchens and Refrigeration, Steel
Technology, and Windows and Doors, hence gaining market
shares in all areas. Once Dr. Edgar Oehler had acquired the
majority shareholding of AFG in October 2003, the share
price more than quadrupled.
General Meeting confirms Board of Director’s course
The General Meeting unanimously approved all the Board
of Director’s applications, ruling on a gross dividend payout
of CHF 7.– per owner and CHF 1.40 per nominal share.
Paul Witschi of Rüschlikon (Canton Zurich), was also elected
as a new Board of Directors Member. As a former member
of the Group’s management, Paul Witschi (63), succeeding
Dr. Ulrich Flückiger after his retirement, has successively
grown the global business of the Geberit Group.
Further growth is down to intensive
internationalisation efforts
Speaking about the demands this current year, Dr. Edgar
Oehler emphasised that the stronger international alignment
of the business has a crucial strategic importance for AFG.
From the platform of its two home markets, Switzerland and
Germany, where AFG is firmly established with its brands
and generate 80% of its sales, the Group is set to take its
activities international. The objective is to develop the
immense market potential in other significant and growing
markets, including the new EU member states, Russia, the
Middle and Far East, in North and South America, Oceania,
as well as North and South Africa. The first ground-breaking
steps were taken by establishing bases in Shanghai, Beijing,
Dubai and other locations, as well as gaining access to the
Miele Kitchens distribution network.
Outlook 2006
Dr. Oehler appeared satisfied with business development in
the first quarter of 2006. Net sales are more than 10% up on
the same period in the prior year – despite inclement weather
conditions impacting the business at the start of the year.
This enabled AFG to carry the leverage it gained in 2005
through into 2006. As Dr. Oehler explains «AFG ignited the
rockets in the first quarter of 2006.» Development in all four
divisions is promising; the increase in sales is having a positive
knock-on effect on income.
«The goal is to tap into the
enormous market
potential in other key
and growing markets.»
Work hard, play hard
Traditionally, the AFG General Meeting also takes in a social
event. Business over and off to the Frohsinn restaurant in
Arbon, where the delegates enjoyed a sumptuous buffet.
Sitting at attractively decorated tables, the shareholders took
the opportunity to talk among themselves and with business
partners, past and present employees, as well as friends and
acquaintances until late into the evening. «

14
Heating Technology
and Sanitary
Equipment
H e a t i n g Te c h n o l o g y a n d
S a n i t a r y E q u i p m e n t
Outstanding design expertise
The Heating Technology and Sanitary Equipment division has brilliant, trendsetting
appeal. Three new models have been recognised with renowned design awards.
Besides the high product quality and perfect function,
outstanding design is an unmistakable criterion for all three
division brands. In the truest sense of the word. Three new
products have been recognised with renowned design prizes:
«iF product design award 2006»
for BAGNOTHERM MOVE
After having demonstrated its special position by achieving
the «red dot design award 2005», BANGNOTHERM MOVE
has received another design accolade. With a thermal design
that moves. The prestigious panel also paid tribute to the
design harmony and exciting asymmetry combined with
extreme functionality. And there’s no wonder – hand towels
can be conveniently hung from the side and the design spans
unmistakable, consistent linearity through to special, almost
invisibly concealed fastening technology.
Kermi walk-in glass units win accolade
Representative studies clearly prove that the bathroom is
moving up the living world’s agenda. The need for peace
and quiet and to get away from it all means bathrooms are
growing in size, as is the desire to cultivate in them an
individual, very personal lifestyle. That’s why Kermi walk-in
glass units are the in thing. These wishes can now come true
with redefined shower areas: generously proportioned glass
«Perfection down
to the finest detail:
a feel-good
bathroom.»
panels carried by stable supports. Precise dimensions and the
combination of ceiling and wall supports enable integration
into any room layout. The ambitious design claim coupled
with optimised workmanship and carefully selected materials
also won over an international panel. The judges paid the
highest possible tribute to the Kermi walk-in glass units with
the «red dot design award 2006».
Renowned design award for Credo-Half
The new Credo-Half bathroom radiator once again demonstrates
that uncompromising styling does not necessarily
mean compromising on comfort or function. With its striking
asymmetry and exciting contrast between two-dimensional
trim design and filigree criss-cross pipes, it fits seamlessly into
the clear linearity of modern bathroom ambience, with no
compromise on comfort. Hand towels, for example, can
conveniently be draped from the side. And nothing disturbs
the puristic linearity. The headers, the very easy assembly
fastening system and all the connections are concealed behind
a screen. Top quality and outstanding heat output make the
Credo-Half a winning thermal solution for the sophisticated,
trendy bathroom. The panel of judges thought so too,
recognising it with the «iF product design award 2006». «

H e a t i n g Te c h n o l o g y a n d
S a n i t a r y E q u i p m e n t 17
Pure bathroom culture: the new Credo line by Kermi
Selective presence
at the pulse of the markets
The continuous presence at the most prominent tradeshows both at home and
abroad gives us an important platform for addressing the market and demonstrating
our efficiency and innovative strength.
Our most ambitious claims include proximity to our customers
and hence also a continuous dialogue with our distribution
and specialist partners. A pivotal tool here is the continuous
presence at all important tradeshows at regional, national and
international level as an ideal podium for graphic demonstration,
detailed information and intense communication
with our partners.
Kermi Heating Technology and Sanitary Equipment
as a symbol of design and innovation
Whilst the international presence at tradeshows in Moscow,
Milan, Paris, Utrecht and Birmingham concentrated on the
ranges with a relevance for the individual countries,
attendance at the important regional exhibitions in Hamburg,
Essen and Nuremberg clearly symbolised design and innovation,
function and solution orientation.
Kermi Therm X2: setting new benchmarks in the flat radiator sector
Innovation
On the heating technology side is the new award-winning
Credo Linie and Therm X2 as a genuine innovation in the flat
radiator sector and the new radiator coating and colour
concept, which carefully considers both the growing need for
hygiene as well as the desire for individual surfaces. Not
forgetting the further completion of the xnet surface
tempering system and the unique Kermi renovation range.
The new Credo product group, accompanied by the equally
highly-prized shower cabin highlights Toca, Toca XP and the
new walk-in glass units, was another attention-grabbing
design theme in the plumbing sector. «Standard not special
production», promised the new, movable side wall variants in
the Ibiza 2000 range – a real problem solver in particular
bathroom situations. And Kermi demonstrates a knack for
meeting market requirements with its «The Right Centre»
special service package.
Everything the market wants: Ibiza 2000 – the full range
Arbonia – with unmistakable design
and special solution expertise
Arbonia’s tradeshow presence was set apart by its presentation
of the new BAGNOTHERM range, which is now even
more charismatic and appealing thanks to the addition of
BAGNOTHERM MOVE. Another focal point is Arbonia’s
unparalleled expertise when it comes to bespoke solutions,
demonstrating once again its flexibility and ability to adapt
to practically any planning situation and any customer
requirement – whether angled, bent, as a radiator bank
or bannister. «
Arbonia impressively demonstrates its skill in creating bespoke solutions
Unique design with multiple variations:
the new Arbonia BAGNOTHERM line

18
Kermi: number 1 by far
The bi-annual survey conducted by «markt intern» nominated Kermi
the Number 1 Supplier for 2005 in the shower cubicle sector.
20,000 tradesman were surveyed, putting Kermi ahead of
the rest. This clearly demonstrates that Kermi’s products and
services are correctly positioned and recognised accordingly.
And by the very target group that in the first instance
has to compete under intense pressure everyday. On closer
consideration, it also becomes clear that the key Kermi
philosophies such as unrestricted quality, market-oriented
range policy, innovative technology and broad sales support
is both seen and experienced. No reason to sit on our laurels,
but rather an incentive to further increase our strengths,
especially where the Kermi brand did not achieve a top place.
With an incentives package that moves us even closer to
our goal. «
10 years of market presence in Russia
Even more pioneering spirit was required when Kermi
geared its first offensive towards Russia in 1996.
Today, Russia is still considered an important market
in Kermi’s internationalisation concept.
It all began 10 years ago with the right vision and a lot of
intuition. High-level activities in the building sector in Russia
promised for the future a significant, growing market
potential. From initial talks emerged interesting relationships.
In collaboration with base dealers, the initial focus was
on the Heating Technology sector and the metropolises of
Moscow and St.Petersburg.Other regions were then covered
and Kermi is now one of Russia’s most important suppliers,
especially in the flat radiator sector. Creative radiators,
xnet panel heaters and high-quality shower cubicles for
luxury dwellings are also distributed in collaboration with
H e a t i n g Te c h n o l o g y a n d
S a n i t a r y E q u i p m e n t
New Marketing Manager,
Switzerland for Arbonia and Prolux
Arbonia AG and Heizkörper Prolux AG appointed a new Marketing
Manager for Switzerland on 1st April 2006.
Rolf Schaufelberger
Marketing Manager, Switzerland
Arbonia and Prolux
Mr Rolf Schaufelberger is a skilled and experienced
professional for this demanding role. A graduate Sales
Manager, his former activities in the heating technology
sector as well as in combustibles, fuels and lubricants
has provided him with the expertise required to significantly
enhance the further success of Arbonia and Prolux brands
in Switzerland.
The graphic shows the new organisation of the market
region, including contact partners and contact data. «
12 partners. Kermi’s mobile exhibition gives it a presence at
numerous tradeshows and ideal home exhibitions. And
this year’s «Aquatherm» show in Moscow, one of the most
significant in the region, was the ideal occasion for
celebrating the company’s ten-year anniversary with some
key customers. «
Organisation and contacts, Switzerland
within the heating and plumbing sector
Arbonia AG
Vaios Doukas
Marketing Manager,
Switzerland
Rolf Schaufelberger
Phone +41 71 447 47 12
doukas.vaios@arbonia.ch
Phone +41 71 447 47 31
schaufelberger.rolf@arbonia.ch
Heizkörper Prolux AG
Alois Schöpfer
Phone +41 71 447 47 30
schoepfer.alois@prolux-ag.ch
At the anniversary celebrations, Mr Lebedinski,
Dr. Schönborn and Mr Habermann (left to right)
expressed their thanks for the positive working relationship

20 Kitchens and Refrigeration
Kitchens
and Refrigeration
Three strong kitchen brands
under one roof
Now open, the first joint Kitchen Center: Forster Kitchens, Miele Kitchens and Piatti Kitchens,
three of Switzerland’s leading kitchen suppliers can now be found under one roof – in the new
AFG Kitchen Center Graubünden in Chur.
Since September 2005, Miele Kitchens has been part of AFG
Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG. Dr. Edgar Oehler predicted a
hugely successful future for the three kitchen suppliers as
soon as the acquisition was finalised. In Chur, his vision is
now becoming reality. Forster Steel kitchens, Miele Kitchens
and Piatti Wooden kitchens have their ranges on over 500 m 2
of show room under just one roof.
For Dr. Oehler, the AFG Kitchen Center in Chur is also a
commitment to south-east Switzerland. «The region has
demonstrated a penchant for ground-breaking architecture
with a number of buildings. This in turn is making kitchen
requirements more discerning.» He now wants the three
kitchen suppliers to meet this demand.
Three brands under one roof
Forster offers steel kitchens in Swiss quality. With their clear
lines and vibrance, they fit seamlessly into any modern,
classic living area. Steel makes the kitchens tough, easy to
clean and hygienic. Miele Kitchens are known for their
international, leading design. Their elegant radiance comes
from timeless styling and a mix of quality materials. At the
same time, Miele Kitchens always go for trendsetting
technology. Piatti is Switzerland’s market leader. The woodbased
kitchens consistently set new standards with their
innovations, which include trend colours, high-gloss designs
or new multimedia kitchens. All three brands have one
common thread: the plethora of colours, materials and layout
variants can create any bespoke dream kitchen. «
AFG Kitchen Center Graubünden
AFG Küchenzentrum Graubünden
Kornquader
Kasernenstrasse 97
CH-7000 Chur
Phone +41 81 255 72 72
www.afg.ch
Opening Hours
Monday to Friday: 08.30 – 12.00 / 13.30 – 17.30 hrs
Saturday: 09.00 – 16.00 hrs

22 Kitchens and Refrigeration
Forster and Piatti launch
their KITCHEN&YOU courses
Find out your needs and benefit from the experience
of real kitchen professionals: KITCHEN&YOU provides
knowledge and ideas.
The planning and building of a bespoke kitchen is a
demanding task. Many building owners are increasing
overwhelmed with an abundance of enquiries, a
consequence of new concepts, materials and equipment.
The two leading kitchen manufacturers, Forster and Piatti
have identified this problem. They are launching a special
series of courses – KITCHEN&YOU. Accompanied by
experienced kitchen professionals, one can learn what their
requirements are and obtain ideas on various solutions.
There are three course modules available, each focussing
on different themes. All courses are offered throughout
Switzerland in both German and French.
The series started in April 2006 and will continue to be
offered for the entire year. Detailed information can
be found under www.kuechenprofis.ch. Registration
either by phone on +41 44 835 54 66 or e-mail to:
kuechenprofis@piatti.ch. «
STEAMER&YOU
Everything you need to know about the latest generation
of steamers
Programme
■ Find out what you need from a steamer
■ Basic facts about steamers
■ Differences between the brands
■ Performance and price
■ Cooking with the new steamers
■ Evening meal and information exchange
References
Unbiased professional chefs with sound
steamer knowledge
Course dates
30 events – see www.kuechenprofis.ch
Venues
Arbon, Basel, Berne, Bussigny, Carouge, Chur, Dietlikon,
Ebikon, St.Gallen, Thun, Winterthur, Zurich
Course fee
CHF 50.–, including evening meal
PLAN&YOU
Everything you need to know about planning your
dream kitchen
Programme
■ Find out what you need from a kitchen
■ The only restrictive factor is space
■ Comfort – Functionality – Ergonomics
■ Cooker or equipment island?
■ Colour, style, material and design trends
■ Interior kitchen values
References
Proven, experienced kitchen professionals
Course dates
22 events – see www.kuechenprofis.ch
Venues
Arbon, Basel, Berne, Bussigny, Carouge, Chur, Dietlikon,
Ebikon, St.Gallen, Winterthur, Zurich
Course fee
None
FUTURE LIVING&YOU
Everything you need to know about future technology
in the kitchen
Programme
■ Future technologies for laymen
■ Find out what your needs and interests are
■ Your kitchen as the crosspoint of technology
■ Telecommunication and entertainment electronics
in the kitchen
■ Which trends are emerging?
■ When is the best time to invest?
References
Proven, experienced kitchen professionals
Course dates
14 events – see www.kuechenprofis.ch
Venues
Arbon, Basel, Berne, Bussigny, Carouge, Chur, Dietlikon,
Ebikon, St.Gallen, Winterthur, Zurich
Course fee
None

Kitchens and Refrigeration 25
Awarded presence
At the «Habitat et Jardin» exhibition in Lausanne (Canton Vaud),
Bruno Piatti AG appearing with Forster Küchen- & Kühltechnik AG
(Kitchens and Refrigeration), won the coveted award for the most
appealing exhibition stand. Piatti and Forster are setting technical innovation
benchmarks in Switzerland. The two firms lived up to their reputation at the
«Habitat et Jardin» exhibition in Lausanne.
A panel of judges appraised the appearance of 560 exhibitors and were most
inspired by Piatti and Forster’s closed stand concept. They rewarded the creativity,
the kitchen concepts being demonstrated and the special atmosphere with the
«Prix du meilleur stand» award. «
Tradeshow
Book tip:
exquisite
kitchens
For the reader, the book develops
the kitchen as a central area of
domestic living. The authors looked
at the kitchen with regard to its
architectural, cultural, social and
economic significance. Important
development trends and pioneering
recipes from over the centuries
(Frankfurt cuisine, standard kitchens,
eat-in kitchens), basic design principles,
the hottest trends, the changing needs
of today’s kitchen area users
(patchwork families, single households),
as well as culinary aspects are all
presented. In short: a book that every
21st Century kitchen should have! The new series entitled «Edition Wohnen»
presents in a succinct, clear way selected themes from the wide subject of living.
It is aimed at both those readers with a general interest in culture, as well as
experts in the field. The series is published by ETH Wohnforum, Zurich.
AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG has supported the project both financially as well
as with graphical material and is pleased with the success of the activity. «
ISBN 3-7643-7280-X
Published by Klaus Spechtenhauser
In paperback
Language: German
Price: CHF 44.–
116 b/w and 59 colour photos,
48 b/w drawings
160 pages, weight: 630 g
The Capovino
built-in wine
cooler
For the «savoir-vivre» of wine connoisseurs: Wine
lovers have a reputation for taking life rather easy.
«Savoir-vivre» they say with pleasure as they savour
the precious drops. The Capovino from Forster,
the world’s first built-in wine cooler for both red and
white wine now promises you pure enjoyment.
As wine experts know: a wine will only develop its full
potential when it’s at the right temperature. Nonetheless,
even restaurants often serve wine that is either too warm or
too cold. A fauxpas that never needs to happen at home
again. Forster, you see, is presenting a world innovation:
Capovino, the first built-in wine cooler with adjustable
temperature zones. This cabinet is able to cool both white
wine and red wine to the correct temperature. To the delight
of all hosts and wine lovers, this means wine at the right
temperature is always to hand.
www.forster-kuechen.ch
Phone +41 71 447 41 41
Fax +41 71 447 46 50
Perfect storage conditions for red and white wine
The secret of the Capovino lies in its separate cooling zones,
which can be regulated individually to between 5° C and 18° C
and offer perfect storage conditions for 36 to 56 bottles of
red and white wine on six shelves. It’s up to the individual to
decide how many bottles should be cooled to which
temperature – this is done by an intermediate shelf that can
be moved any number of times. It also has an attractive
design – simple and timeless, the Capovino certainly catches
the intrigued eye. The specialities it stores can be appraised
through UV-absorbant glass doors. The quality, harmonious
LED lighting protects the wine from undesirable warming.
The Capovino reveals the true experts and highlights the
«savoir-vivre» in which all wine lovers bask. «
«The love of wine is more
than pure enjoyment.
It’s a way of life.»

26 Kitchens and Refrigeration
Miele Kitchens:
putting variety on the agenda
Part of the international furniture exhibition, Europe’s most important kitchen
furniture exhibition, «Eurocucina» was held from 5th to 10th May 2006 in the new exhibition
halls in Milan, with Miele’s kitchen innovations making a huge debut.
After the exhibition, Managing Directors of Warendorfer
Küchen GmbH – Dr. Edgar Oehler, Kerstin Loeser and Dr. Uwe
Steinmeyer had a permanent presence – were highly satisfied
with how the exhibition had gone: a host of experts visiting
the convincing exhibition stand, high-quality, professional
dialogue and inspired customer reactions to the innovations
on show.
Luminous surfaces and lines
On a stand shared with Miele built-in appliances, Miele
Kitchens presented in five fascinating new kitchens two
innovative, leading themes: light and worktops. The moodlight
concept is unique, illuminating surfaces and lines – pure
emotion. Warendorfer Küchen GmbH reveals how coloured
moodlight, based on the latest LED technology, makes the
Miele kitchen perceptibly emotional. And it would not be the
Miele Kitchens brand if this technology were unable to show
the worklight in a new guise: the worklight and the cabinet’s
new interior lighting with the new orientation light in both
cabinets and drawers offer functionality and new customer
benefits.
Even more design freedom
The new worktop concept systematically incorporates the
worktop into the overall design of Miele kitchens: the
material and colour of the worktop edging can be designed
to match the kitchen front. Five different worktop thicknesses,
252 material/colour variants for the edging and
192 material/colour combinations for the work surfaces
to choose from! Inspiring, new design freedom for the
worktops – matched to Miele kitchens.
The handleless Miele kitchen: the L14 range
with the new micro-structure finish in black and
beige featuring the new moodlight concept
Also making their debut are two completely new kitchen
ranges: the handleless Miele kitchen, which has been
available since early April (12 ranges are on offer) and the
line with the novel, three-section front, which shows its true
beauty in wood with the combination of horizontal and
vertical graining (7 ranges).
More variety in synthetics
The new F16 range rounds out the extensive offering with a
synthetic variant. Whilst Miele kitchen designers have long
been able to plan to any colour requirement when it comes to
finish, until now they have been confined to 18 synthetic decor
types. That’s now about to change: high-quality HPL fronts
in 160 colours offer a bold, robust alternative to the new
micro-structure finish fronts.
This innovative advancement is rounded-out by five new,
self-arranged brand-typical handles – unmistakable unique
selling points. Warendorfer gives its brand kitchen what is
needs most: recognition and fascination, innovation and
emotion.
All expert visitors were able to take away with them
information on the entire innovation package on a CD-ROM
New: the LED lighting in the draws and front
shelves
Design
New: the cabinet’s interior lighting with backlit
glass shelves
created jointly with Miele – an explanation of all innovative
features – as well as a film on a new DVD. Information that
they could enjoy again at home as a «cinema experience». «
The new three-section front with the new lobe handle and moodlight
concept (light line below the worktop). N70 range, light oak and L73
mirror finish, NCS special colour, aubergine
New: the LED-lit glass rear panels make the
alcove system into a showroom

28 S t e e l Te c h n o l o g y
Steel Technology
Forster unico – a world innovation
A world innovation was debuted at the very first attendance at the «fensterbau/frontale»
exhibition from 22nd to 25th March 2006 in Nuremberg: Forster unico, the profile system from
100% steel for heat-insulated doors and windows.
Perfect timing for showing the youngest member in the
Forster system family to a large audience in the Germanspeaking
area. Our largest export market, Germany was the
obvious choice. The positive feedback from the expert visitor
as well as from our representatives demonstrates that this
system has a positive future ahead.
New products, new contacts
The Forster thermfix light system was presented as another
innovation. This system allows a facade glass panel to be
simply mounted to steel, aluminium or wooden substructures.
Forster thermfix light has been successfully tested on the
criteria required to use the CE mark. Also presented were
several innovations and product upgrades for fire-proofing
and safety.
The highlight: Forster unico – a world innovation
The exhibition set a new record with specialist visitors
numbering over 100,000. The exhibition now also has a
much more international orientation. We welcomed
visitors from 23 countries to our stand.
Winners of innovation award
During the exhibition, the innovation award «Architektur-
Fenster-Fassade» was awarded for the first time by
NürnbergMesse GmbH and the specialist magazine
«xia Intelligente Architektur». We entered the competition
with the Forster unico system and were awarded the first
prize in category 2 – products of high architectural quality:
testimony to the fact that the system is highly revered in
the world of architecture.
Attendance at the exhibition can therefore be considered
a huge success for Forster Profile Systems. «
The Forster Profile Systems stand is ready for the stampede of visitors
World innovation

S t e e l Te c h n o l o g y 31
Brilliant surfaces in consistently high quality
The final cut
Facades, windows and doors from high-grade stainless steel are architectural
trend products. A demanding material, one which does not forgive mistakes
in planning or workmanship. Forster Profile Systems offers new high-grade steel
profiles with cut visible surfaces – in the same consistently high quality. The
consistent polished surface of the high-grade steel profiles allows windows, doors
and facades to be made in the same aesthetic quality. An enormous benefit for
the fabricator: the combination, for example, of facade and fire-proofing elements
have the same appearance. All system profiles in 1.4301 high-grade steel will in
future be supplied with finish-cut surfaces.
Time-saving and quality
For the fabricator, this means time saved through simplified planning, optimised
working processes and the avoidance of additional transport, as the risk of damage
during transport and handling is considerably reduced.
The polished cut surface with 220 to 240 graining is factory-produced in a special
industrial unit. To protect the surface, the profiles are laminated with a hard-wearing
film and delivered in secure packaging. «
New brochure for precision steel tubes
A new brochure for precision steel tubes has been created
just in time for the «Tube» exhibition to be held in Dusseldorf,
from 24th to 28th April 2006. Besides presenting our
product range, the brochure also focuses on the theme of
«Substitution». We have developed this buzzword into a
convincing sales argument. We are able to offer an attrac-
tively priced alternative in a welded design for applications
that have so far had to rely on expensive cold-drawn tubes.
We have recently won quite a number of new customers
with this new product.
We are convinced that substitution will become one of
our key pillars in precision steel tubes. «
Substitution
From Latin «substituere» – replace
Safety exhibition «Fiera Sicurezza», Milan
Our Italian representative, Tubifer, presented our safety
systems at the «Fiera Sicurezza» exhibition held from
16th to 18th March 2006 in Milan. The specially designed
stand provided a good opportunity to introduce the
Forster unico system in Italy. «
Simple, quick, cost-effective:
glazed facades featuring the new Forster
thermfix light system
The stand in «Nero Assoluto»
The new freedom
in facade construction
Filigree finish with any substructures: the new Forster thermfix light
facade creates new design freedom in facade concepts. The complementary
system comprising top and press-on profiles offer architects and designers new
options – right through to the two-dimensional bright glass finish. The new facade
range is technically mature: all the necessary tests have been successfully conducted
in accordance with the building product standard for curtain facades to EN 13830
(CE mark). Standard steel and aluminium profiles and timber constructions can be
glazed with just 50 mm of visible width. Despite having only a few components,
this facade system can be used anywhere.
Excellent U f thermal insulation values from 1.3 to 1.5 W/m 2 K can be achieved,
depending on the glass used. Glass panels weighing up to 1200 kg can be fitted
into certain types of building.
The fabricators will be pleased: as well as the simple sealing system, the continuous
screw-in duct enables elements to be installed swiftly and reliably. «
universal

32 S t e e l Te c h n o l o g y
The popular venue for major events: the Hallenstadion Zurich
By hook or by crook
The Hallenstadion
The Hallenstadion Zurich which opened in 1939 is one of
Switzerland’s biggest and most historical halls. And it
now begins a new chapter – with Forster profile systems.
It took exactly 14 months to remodel the legendary hall in
the east part of Zurich. Since its inauguration in 1939, it has
witnessed over 5,000 events: from the six-day cycle race
to a concert by the Rolling Stones. Since August 2005,
organisers of business, sport and cultural events have been
benefiting from the expanded arena and the newly added
Conference Center.
The new Hallenstadion in Zurich – over 14,000 m 2 of meeting
area, a lively, convivial atmosphere with a highly modern
One of the most frequently applied finishing processes for precision steel tubes is bending.
This involves deforming the tube beyond its elastic limit, so that a plastic, i.e. permanent
form change remains.
Bending causes the inside of the workpiece to compress
and the outside to stretch. If the deformation is too severe,
there is a risk of the outside breaking or the inside bending.
Bending machines, some of which are fitted with several
CNC-controlled axes, produce complex, usually threedimensional
tube shapes. Crucial to this process is the precise
deformation of the bends, and above all the repeat accuracy.
This means that all bending parts must be produced as
uniformly as possible, without having to keep adjusting the
machine.
The key to repeat accuracy is a robust, precise bending
machine with the appropriate tools, as well as a largely even
tube with very restricted requirements for material,
dimensions and mechanical properties.
Important market segment: office furniture
Bending as a process is used for a host of automotive parts,
more importantly, however in one of Forster’s most important
market segments: in office furniture for so-called cantilever
chairs that are often used in meeting rooms. An additional
challenge here is creating a perfect surface suitable for direct
chromating without preparatory grinding. This is where
Forster WBKV quality comes in. Cold-rolled steel strips with a
very good surface are used. The surface is further improved in
the tube manufacturing process through rolling, moulding
and calibrating.
Photo: AG Hallenstadion, André Springer
Market leader with precision
Tube sections required for a cantilever chair, some of which
are over 3.5 m long, pose a special challenge for production,
handling and transportation due to the combined
requirements for repeat accuracy on bending and a perfect
surface. Forster’s precision steel tubes have without doubt
been the market leader for decades. «
Precision steel tubes for bending, a core AFG product,
are in demand especially for cantilever chairs
in a new light
infrastructure for encounters with a difference. A building
that welcomes over a million visitors a year has to meet
the most stringent requirements in terms of safety, stability
and longevity.
The requirements are best satisfied by Forster Profile Systems
and have therefore been successfully used in Zurich’s
Hallenstadion.
As well as this stadium, other prominent large buildings have
also been created with Forster profile systems: the «Stade la
Praille» in Geneva and the «Stade de Suisse», formerly
Wankdorf, in Berne. «
90 minutes
fire resistance
Our Forster fuego light T90/F90 steel profile system
as a door or panel keeps escape and rescue routes free
of the destructive effects of fire for 90 minutes.
90 minutes in which to escape from an inferno,
90 minutes in which lives can be saved. Intensive research,
a host of preliminary tests and several official tests at official
institutes on all possible variants have ultimately created the
most slender and elegant structure that can successfully resist
the destructive effect of fire for 90 minutes. The system has
recently been successfully tested and approved in Germany.
Assuming a frame thickness of 70 mm, the ingenious material
combination of steel and insulation reduces the temperature
on the fire side from 1000º C to 200º C on the non-fire side –
for a full 90 minutes! And its not only fire that Forster’s fuego
light T90/F90 keeps under control, the deathly smoke is also
kept away from escape and rescue routes. «
Entrance doors up to 3 m high from insulated steel profiles
Insulated, fire and collapse-proof escape routes
Fireproof doors and closures connecting existing and
new buildings

S t e e l Te c h n o l o g y 35
Extending the value creation chain
Rattunde & Co. GmbH manufactures high-quality systems for the tube finishing process.
The new system Rattunde 2 for finishing precision tubes has been successfully commissioned
by Forster Rohr- & Profiltechnik AG.
Customers are now purchasing an increasing number of tubes
in finished fixed lengths. For logistical and qualitative reasons,
it is practical to make them on competitive systems in the
factory. In addition to the pure cutting of the tubes, there are
also new finishing steps such as punching or boring. This is
where the Rattunde 2 comes into its own. This newly installed
unit logically combines cutting, milling, punching, boring and
stamping in one linked system. Its modular structure enables
expansions in a number of different directions.
This new process chain has clear benefits over previous
structures:
■ No more transporting from the tube manufacturer to
the fixed-length manufacturer
■ Improved optimisation potential in material utilisation
■ Finer precision with cutting to length and 100% inline
monitoring
■ Reduced process chain, i.e. improved service for the
end customer
Installing the system was no problem, as this is already the
second Rattunde system we have commissioned. We were
also able to make several improvements. A further advantage
of this system design is, of course, also the speed at which
Installed Rattunde 2 viewed from the run-out side
personnel become familiar with the new workhorse in the
fixed length department. The system is already making some
products and other ranges are being run-up. «
The saw blade unit in detail. Most noticeable is the solid design,
which distinguishes today’s machine generation from older systems.
The sawing blade is barely visible
Pure appeal
Valencia’s opera house designed by the famous architect Santiago
Calatrava is now our show building in Spain. For acoustic reasons, the
entrance areas to the numerous rehearsal areas were fitted with the Forster
stainless steel therm system door. The excellent noise insulation values
were key to this choice of profile. Outside, over 4,500 m 2 of glass panelling
were created using the Forster presto system. «
New: U-Value Calculator
Energy-saving has been a hot topic since the first oil crisis in 1973. In the
mid 1970’s, Forster was Europe’s first steel profile manufacturer to offer
thermally separate profile systems. The 1990’s saw an aroused general
consciousness for raw material and energy savings. Terms such as PET, recycling
and – in the building industry – Minergie standard and passive energy started to
emerge. In Europe over the last five years, new regulations and legislation on
energy saving in new and converted buildings have come into force. The move
towards Europeanisation changed many designations and the K-Value, the most
well-known symbol, was replaced with the U-Value.
All these initiatives resulted in architects and planners requiring precise details
of a building material’s physical properties. In the case of profiles for windows
and doors, a host of materials and geometries have to be calculated together.
To simplify this task, Forster worked in collaboration with graduates to develop a
computer program. «U-Value Calculator» is easy to understand and calculates for
Forster profiles the U-Values (thermal transfer coefficients) of entire components.
The trilingual program is available on CD and together with the Helpline,
represents a new service product for our customers. «

36 W i n d o w s a n d D o o r s
Windows
and Doors
When fitted, the XL ® window systems
exhibit extremely narrow profile views
EgoKiefer launches a
XL new world of windows ®
EgoKiefer’s new XL ® window technology is a milestone in the history of
modern window building. XL ® is the first window system with triple the added
value for customers: More light, more heat, more view.
The abbreviation «XL», however, does not only stand for
customer benefits, but rather for new product, and especially
production technology. EgoKiefer is the first window and
door manufacturer to use the high-quality industrial bonding
technology known from aircraft construction. A highlyautomated
system that has been modified for new, timber/
aluminium window structures and for which a patent has
been registered.
More light, more heat, better outlook – the XL ® window
system offers customers attractive and unique added value.
This new generation of windows is further testimony to
EgoKiefer’s innovative leadership on the Swiss market. The
timber/aluminium XL ® window has been available since
August 2005; its synthetic counterpart will follow suit from
summer 2006.
The XL ® customer benefits at a glance:
More light: XL ® enhances quality of life
Conventional window systems are about 75% glass or less,
EgoKiefer XL ® window technology offers 85% and more.
This higher proportion of glass guarantees up to 15% more
light incidence and therefore a perceivably better living and
working atmosphere.
EgoKiefer’s new XL ® timber/aluminium window
on the internal test bed
More heat: XL ® cuts heating energy consumption
Combined with EgoKiefer’s exclusive, optimised EgoVerre ®
insulating glass, the window’s heating energy consumption
can be reduced by more than 70%. The new window system
achieves further excellent technical values thanks to the
improved statistics at wind load level and the higher stiffness
at glass level.
More view: XL ® creates vision
The linear, slender design of the XL ® window creates new
options for facade design. The innovative bonding technology
has optimised the profile geometry. The result is a
much higher proportion of glass, which makes for a stunning,
expanded view through the window.
Minergie standard
The XL ® timber/aluminium window system achieves peak
values in heat insulation and has been certified in accordance
with the more stringent Minergie standards. The synthetic
version of the XL ® will be available from summer 2006.
Bonding technology – an innovative production process
With XL ® window systems, the insulating glass is bonding
directly onto the window pane by a high-quality adhesive.
This innovative bonding technology is used predominantly for
high-tech industrial applications. The new bonding technology
enables optimised profile geometry and extremely
narrow exterior views. «

38 W i n d o w s a n d D o o r s
EgoKiefer’s new regional
head-quarters in Wallisellen
EgoKiefer is expanding its market position in the Zurich region. The merger between the two
previous branch locations in Zurich-Wollishofen and Dietlikon (Canton Zurich), to create one large
subsidiary has effectively bundled regional expertise. This in turn will enhance our ability to give
customer advice. EgoKiefer’s new regional headquarters is located at Industriestrasse 21 in Wallisellen
(Canton Zurich). The move took place during the last week of April 2006.
As a national window and door manufacturer, EgoKiefer has
a presence in every region of Switzerland, enabling it to
efficiently satisfy the specific requirements of local markets.
The reorganisation of Zurich as one of EgoKiefer’s sales regions
is a logical development of this distribution strategy. The
merger between the two previous branches to create the
new organisation in Wallisellen will also bring together human
resources. Shorter internal communication routes, increased
capacities and the further expansion of customer care
are just some of the key benefits offered by this project.
Basel’s Schifflände property
First class infrastructure
EgoKiefer’s new regional headquarters has an excellent
infrastructure. The newly designed and constructed showroom
displays a broad cross-section of EgoKiefer’s multifaceted
expertise in windows and doors and is an excellent
platform for advising our customers and distribution partners
and providing information on the latest product innovations.
EgoKiefer has established an «assembly garden», which will
provide a training and development venue for both internal
and external assembly teams. The generously proportioned
conference room is also able to accommodate national
events for customers, partners and employees alike.
Monument protection to order
The residential and commercial property in Basel’s
Schifflände is located in the inner city area. Special
conditions for the Basel monument protection authorities
therefore had to be met. The challenging old building
project with new EgoKiefer timber windows was realised.
The requirements to protect the monument were high. Working
from old photographs from the State Archive as a template,
EgoKiefer’s Basel sales subsidiary in close collaboration with
the product centre at the EgoKiefer’s Headquarters developed
the details required for this building. The details proposed for
the preservation initiative were presented with the building
owner and the real estate management company.
A special rod with an integrated drainage facility for the
horizontal door frame was developed, as was a rounded
protective strip for the middle section of the leaf. Likewise, the
old windows had to be dismantled with the utmost care, in
order to eliminate the possibility of the interior window trim
worth keeping becoming damaged.
The property’s location also posed a challenge for EgoKiefer
when it came to the building logistics. As there was no storage
area whatsoever available, all deliveries including the windows
and removal of the old window elements had to be precisely
planned and executed. The goods were effectively handled just
a few minutes away – in line with the tramway schedule. «
The new regional headquarters at
Industriestrasse 21 in Wallisellen
Additional sales office
All business is local – this old company principle and the
consistent alignment of the local distribution organisation
has contributed significantly to EgoKiefer’s number one
position for windows and doors in Switzerland and will
continue to expand this status in future. True to the sense of
experienced customer proximity then, EgoKiefer is to have an
additional sales office for the south Zurich region. This will
ensure we can continue to give our customers and partners
EgoKiefer goes big
in St.Gallen
EgoKiefer was permitted to realise a special large
contract at Heimstrasse in St.Gallen. Precisely three
multiple-family dwellings were fitted with EgoKiefer’s
MPR2 synthetic windows. EgoKiefer – in this case the
colleagues at its St.Gallen subsidiary – was once again able
to demonstrate its extreme skill in the construction of loft
apartments. The extra-large window areas require expert
advice and professional statistical calculations, in order to
guarantee the windows will continue to function soundly
for decades.
Parallel slide and tilt doors with dimensions of
3,780 mm x 2,390 mm (frame clearance) were installed on
the ground floor. Overall, this interesting project involved
the installation of a window area measuring 2,012 m 2 ,
equivalent to 264 individual windows. «
in this part of the Zurich sales region the best possible service
and now from an even closer proximity. The new sales office
accommodation at Böhnirainstrasse 13 in Thalwil (Canton
Zurich), will be ready for occupation in early June 2006.
EgoKiefer will keep on to offer «Lead through ideas». The
basis required to do this has now been created also in the
EgoKiefer Sales Region of Zurich. «
Exterior view of the multiple family dwellings with rented lofts
Interior view of a loft apartment with large window areas

W i n d o w s a n d D o o r s
Minergie ® as a label of quality
Minergie is carried as a brand by the Swiss government, the cantons and businesses. It also enjoys
trademark protection. The key Minergie arguments are its low energy usage, good value
maintenance and high comfort level. As one of the few manufacturers, EgoKiefer is able to offer
Minergie module windows in all standard materials.
Minergie building
Minergie has become an established term in Switzerland.
Minergie undisputedly cuts energy consumption, which in turn
reduces operating costs. According to the Minergie
Association, there is a direct link between high standards in
comfort, health and freedom from damage on the one hand
and low energy consumption on the other. Accordingly, the
requirements for Minergie buildings were defined largely on
the basis of energy limit values.
Today, hermetically-sealed building cladding is considered stateof-the-art
technology. However, this requires special measures
to guarantee a fresh air flow and dissipation of harmful
substances and moisture. Uncontrolled (manual) window
vents will not suffice – the Minergie building needs a
controllable air exchange all year round by means of a
mechanical, air renewal system.
Minergie module for individual components
The quality of a house depends on the quality of the
individual components and how they are assembled/installed.
That’s why the Minergie Association has defined so-called
modules for important components and part systems. When
it comes to buildings, these are presently wall and roof
structures and window systems. Especially converted
buildings that are frequently realised step-by-step can be
improved by applying Minergie modules. Another aim of the
module is to be able to quickly advise designers and building
owners what is expected of a window. One of Switzerland’s
first window and door suppliers, in 2002 EgoKiefer had its
window systems certified to the Minergie standards valid at
the time. Today, EgoKiefer is able to offer Minergie module
windows in all materials in accordance with the more
stringent Minergie conditions to SIA Standard 380/1. «
With the EgoKiefer XL ® window systems, the glass clearance of the wing
is barely 20 mm less than the wall clearance. The designs therefore
significantly exceed the minimum required glass proportion of 75%
EgoKiefer Minergie module window systems
The following EgoKiefer window designs satisfy the more
stringent Minergie requirements:
■ MPR3 synthetic window MPR3 (full frame),
with 3-times EgoVerre Ug = 0.7 W/m 2 K
■ Timber window (full frame),
with 3-way EgoVerre Ug = 0.7 W/m 2 K
■ HA3 timber/aluminium window (full frame),
with 3-way EgoVerre Ug = 0.7 W/m 2 K
■ Timber/aluminium window XL ® (full frame),
with 3-way EgoVerre Ug = 0.7 W/m 2 K
■ From summer 2006
XL ® synthetic window (full frame),
with 3-way EgoVerre Ug = 0.7 W/m 2 K
Extension for the production
facility at Altstätten East
Just one year after the production facility at Altstätten East (Canton St.Gallen)
was commissioned, capacities had to be expanded and the production area
therefore increased. The reason is Egokiefer’s extremely pleasing sales success
in plastic and plastic/aluminium slide and tilt doors and house doors.
By virtue of the strong demand, EgoKiefer decided in early
2005, to relocate production of its synthetic house doors and
slide and tilt doors. The 1,000 m 2 production facility it then
leased at Altstätten East was commissioned in May 2005.
Production was expanded exactly one year later in May 2006.
EgoKiefer set itself up for further quantity increases by
leasing an additional surface of 355 m 2 . This expansion will
be able to cover a 50% increase in house doors and 30% in
slide and tilt doors.
As well as additional work area, more jobs were created to
ensure this goal could be reached. EgoKiefer is also investing
in new plant and machinery, including a new top saw with
electronic long lay. A production island for steel processing is
being set up and the blank list organisation is being optimised.
In future, oversized slide and tilt doors can be arranged in the
hall and then prepared for transport.
Creating the basis for future quantity increases
EgoKiefer has expanded the Altstätten East production
facility to create the basis required for future quantity
increases. However, by optimising the production
infrastructure, creating new jobs and investing in new plant
and machinery, the project is also further optimising
production and logistics processes. «
41