From then until now
A Company’s History
And so the journey began.
Heinz Schönenbach borrows a sewing machine, which is only available to him at night. At home, he begins sewing the first leather bags. The idea for PARAT is born ...
1945
Foundation
On October 8th, 1945, the family-owned business "Lederwarenfabrik Schönenbach" was established in Remscheid with Martin Schönenbach. The first milestone of PARAT’s history was laid.
1945
Leather bags
Schönenbach's passion for leather bags led to the establishment of a company, which has since gained global recognition as the brand PARAT. His dedication and craftsmanship set the stage for PARAT's international success, marking the beginning of an impressive company history.
1967
Brand name PARAT
The new tool bag with drawers was showcased at the International Hardware Fair in Cologne. When Gertrud Schönenbach, the wife of the founder Heinz Schönenbach, saw the bag and opened it, she said, "Wow, a place for everything and everything in its place." This moment led to the birth of the brand PARAT, meaning literally 'to have everything always ready to hand' in German. The trademark PARAT was registered, and the first logo was visualized.
1970
Breakthrough in thermoforming
The "Thermoforming" technology is advancing rapidly. The company invested in its first thermoforming plant, laying the cornerstone for today’s core competencies in creating "storage solutions" and "case systems". Two years later, the production of the first hard cases began.
1980
The hard shell case
The previous range of tool cases has been extensively revised, creating the first hard shell tool cases. These cases are equipped with new frame and barrel locks, and the interior has been tailored to meet the needs of different crafts and trades. Hard shell cases are now the best-selling items in PARAT’s case portfolio.
1990
Portfolio expansion
The newly developed Cargo and Top-Line series covers a fine selection of models best suited for craftsmen in different trades.
1993
The mobile office
The "know-how" of the tool case sector was transferred to a new market segment in 1993. Storage solutions for notebooks and printers were added to the portfolio, giving birth to the 'mobile office' concept.
2001
Safety lamps
Innovation leader PARAT has expanded its portfolio to include safety lamps for bags and cases. As a trusted institution for safe lighting, PARAT represents the perfect combination of maximum luminous power and certified explosion protection. In doing so, PARAT is setting a new industry standard and offering comprehensive safety solutions for many applications.
2012
The PARAPROJECT® Case
PARAT is revolutionizing the education sector by introducing the first series of tool cases designed to accommodate up to 16 iPad devices or tablets. The robust outer shells and high-quality locking mechanisms protect valuable IT equipment and ensure it is safe from unauthorized access. With these cases, tablets can be securely charged, transported, and managed.
2016
Introducing nylon bags
As a complement to traditional leather bags, the product line now includes highly durable nylon tool bags.
2022
Redesign & Foundation PARAT Solutions GmbH
Due to the changes in digitalization and the increasing demand for a visible and strong brand, PARAT has completely reoriented itself. After extensive analysis and conceptual phases, the new brand image has been launched, perfectly tailored to today's needs. This also includes a future-oriented and attractive product image.
In 2022, PARAT Solutions GmbH was established following the merger of W.AG. PARAT Solutions GmbH now operates as a wholly-owned subsidiary of W.AG Holding. Both companies have expanded their product portfolios and have become leaders in the storage and transport systems market!
2023
Individual case solutions
Expansion of the entire product portfolio to include customised cases, led by the PARADUO. In addition to the proven PARAT organisation systems, high-quality foams such as LD29 and LD45 are also available for customised interior solutions. Alongside PARAT branding, co-branding and private-label options are also possible.
2023
Waldkirchen – new administration & development site
At the central Waldkirchen site, all corporate business activities are efficiently centralized. Direct and short routes between operations and administration lead to a measurable increase in customer value. Our in-house development center is dedicated to engineering and developing storage solutions of the highest quality standards in Germany for the future.
2024
360 degrees
Maximum efficiency was achieved with the innovative design of the new PARACTIVE line. These cases are complemented by the unique 360° swiveling transport system, PARAMOVER.
More informations
Visit our "About Us" page for more details about our company and team members.