The traditional Bavarian company from Mainburg was founded in 1948 and has developed at a rapid pace to become a global player. After starting out in the field of fire fighting boots, HAIX now supplies armies around the world, equipping special units, and is the first choice when it comes to high-quality high-tech footwear.
1948
Foundation
HAIX stands for Xaver Haimerl. Over 60 years ago, the founder of the company added the X from his first name to the first three letters of his last name and established the Haimerl Xaver shoe factory – or HAIX for short. Based in the Bavarian town of Mainburg, the company quickly makes a name for itself by selling hiking and work boots under various brand names.
1992
As well as being a certified master shoemaker in his father’s factory, Ewald Haimerl is the deputy fire chief of Mainburg’s fire service. He and his fire fighting colleagues are equally unhappy with the rubber boots they have to wear at that time. The professional shoemaker immediately takes action and designs a collection of functional leather fire fighting boots for his comrades.
1993
The idea takes off: HAIX fire fighting boots garner praise and recognition. HAIX also develops boots and shoes for rescue workers and the police.
1999
HAIX produces more than 100,000 pairs of shoes per year.
2003
HAIX North America Inc., a sales subsidiary, is established in Lexington, Kentucky, to serve the US and Canadian markets.
2009
A high-tech production facility is being built in Croatia with a capacity of 3,000 pairs daily.
At the main site in Mainburg, plans for a modern new head office come to fruition.
At the main site in Mainburg, plans for a modern new head office come to fruition.
2010
HAIX is set to revolutionize boots for firefighters for the second time in the shape of the FIRE HERO – the safest fire fighting boots ever. The product is premiering at the 2010 INTERSCHUTZ trade show.
The company invests 4,7 million € in the expansion of the head office in Mainburg.
2012
With the new product line BLACK EAGLE, HAIX sets new standards. Production increases to 650,000 pairs per annum.
2013
The brand-new BLACK EAGLE Safety premiers at A+A in Düsseldorf, the leading trade show for safety products. The sporty product line combines lightweight and comfort with an athletic look and high functional safety. At the same time, HAIX is bringing the technology and know-how back from Asia and extends the production plant in Europe with its high ecological and social standards.
2014
Expansion of production capacity in HAIX plant in Croatia. HAIX continues the strategy of sustainable production consistently.
2015
The company employs over 1,100 people by the end of the year and the production increases to more than one million pairs per annum.
2016
Two new plants are being commissioned in Croatia. This means that the production area totals 15,000 m². The production capacity will be indreased to up to 10,000 pairs per day.
2017
The international Logistics Centre in Mainburg is officially opened and commences operations. HAIX presents its HAIX WEAR clothing collection for the first time at the A+A in Düsseldorf. Expansion of HAIX North America, Lexington, USA.
2019
In May the new HAIX WORLD officially opens its doors. The Mainburg flagship store offers a unique shopping experience for all HAIX fans.
New employee record: With 31 new trainees the so far largest age group at HAIX starts its professional life. The team in Croatia grows by 230 new employees with the expanded shaft production.
Family business in third generation: At the end of the year Tanja and Michael Haimerl join HAIX as new managing directors.
New employee record: With 31 new trainees the so far largest age group at HAIX starts its professional life. The team in Croatia grows by 230 new employees with the expanded shaft production.
Family business in third generation: At the end of the year Tanja and Michael Haimerl join HAIX as new managing directors.