ZURICH, Switzerland – Renowned coffee grinder manufacturer and innovator, Mahlkönig, invites the global coffee industry to join the company in celebrating its first 100 years. Founded in the pivotal trade city of Hamburg, Germany in 1924, amid the hum of industrial progress, Stawert Mühlenbau GmbH & Co. KG laid the foundation for what would become one of the world’s foremost manufacturers of coffee grinders—Mahlkönig.
The brand name Mahlkönig, meaning “King of Grinders”, was first registered in December of that year, setting an intention for the excellence, precision, and passion the company is known for today.
To commemorate these first hundred years of progress and innovation, Mahlkönig is hosting a series of celebrations throughout the specialty industry and sharing the story of its success far and wide.
Mahlkönig’s history is one of both determination and adaptation: as technology has advanced and tastes have evolved, the company has continuously risen to the occasion, setting the pace for what is possible in coffee grinding.
Throughout 2024, Mahlkönig will look back together with the coffee community in celebrating its incredible milestones, from the first Type 0 grinding machine to the 1957 launch of the EK0 W1 BN, early predecessor of the famed EK43, itself also known as the “King of Grinders”. From these landmark coffee-grinding machines to today’s breadth of selection in the categories of Twin Grinder, At Home, Grind-by-Weight, and Grind- by-Sync, each in a class by itself, there is no question it’s been a fruitful 100 years.
Marcel Lehmann, CEO of Hemro Group: “For a century now, Mahlkönig has been more than just a brand: it’s become iconic in the coffee industry around the world, a catalyst for connections, and a canvas for countless stories to unfold. Our commitment to quality, innovation, and the joy of shared quality coffee moments remains unwavering, infusing every grind with passion and purpose. As we celebrate the culmination of our first century, we reflect not only on our achievements but on the profound connections we’ve forged along the way. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who have supported us throughout this remarkable journey, from our loyal customers and dedicated partners to our talented team members and dedicated communities. We are deeply thankful for their continued trust and collaboration.”
Look for events celebrating Mahlkönig’s First 100 Years to take place at SCA Expo this April in Chicago in conjunction with Standart Magazine and Intelligentsia, and in Copenhagen this June during World of Coffee with Standart Magazine and La Cabra. Presence at these events reflect the company’s deep commitment to the specialty coffee industry and support of the competitive events that elevate coffee’s craft. In addition, stay tuned for media coverage with major coffee outlets diving deep into Mahlkönig’s fascinating history.
2024 promises to be an exciting year for fans of coffee, and for Mahlkönig, the exciting start of its next 100 years.
Milestones in Mahlkönig History
1924: Stawert Mühlenbau GmbH & Co. KG founded in Hamburg, “Mahlkönig” brand registered. It produces spice, grain, and coffee grinders. Work begins on the company’s first coffee grinder, the Type 0 (predecessor of EK0).
1950: The EK0 W1 BN grinder launched, predecessor to the EK43 1960: The company chooses to focus exclusively on coffee grinders. 1970: The EK 23, a predecessor of EK43, is produced.
1990: The iconic EK43 is launched. Within 30 years it will become the most-sold professional coffee grinder in history.
2004: Introduction of the K30ES Single Espresso, the first hands-free grinder.
2008: The K30 Twin, the industry’s first double grinder, is released.
2009: Mahlkönig becomes official grinder sponsor of the World Barista Championship for the first time—one of many other equipment sponsorships to come.
2013: Matt Perger’s use of the EK43 grinder at the World Barista Championship sparks its widespread adoption in coffee shops globally.
2017: Launch of the EK43 S, a shorter version of the EK43.
2019: E65S GbW introduced, the first espresso grinder with weight-based dosing bringing Grind-by-Weight technology to top-tier level performance and reliability.
2020: Mahlkönig´s plant relocate to a new, state-of-the-art building featuring an open and modern working environment for all employees, and an impressive view into the production process for all who visit.
2023: The EK Omnia launch is a major milestone, showcasing the brand’s forward- thinking approach. Inspired by the EK43, this new grinder epitomizes the company’s latest coffee grinding innovation, blending cutting-edge technology with EK’s hallmark quality and consistency.
2023: E80W Grind-by-Sync introduced. The Sync System pairs the Mahlkönig E80W Grind-by-Sync espresso grinder with an espresso machine.
2024: Mahlkönig celebrates its first 100 years.
