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Press release
05. September 2025

A future built on tradition: Fassmer celebrates its 175th anniversary

from left to right Holger Fassmer, Olaf Lies, Harald Fassmer, Jan Henkel; Picture: 2B Media

from left to right Holger Fassmer, Olaf Lies, Harald Fassmer, Jan Henkel; Picture: 2B Media

Berne, September 5, 2025 – The family-owned company Fassmer celebrated its 175th anniversary today with a ceremony attended by numerous guests from politics, business, and the maritime industry. The event focused on the company's entrepreneurial milestones, pioneering technical work, and its transformation from a medium-sized business into an internationally active specialist shipbuilder with a broad portfolio.

“Sometimes the sea is as smooth as glass, sometimes you're battling against the storm,” said Managing Director Holger Fassmer in his speech. “Our compass has been our family motto for generations: Dare and Win.” A guiding principle that runs through the company's history: from the first dinghies to modern research vessels, OPVs, and climate-neutral propulsion systems.

With a current order volume of more than one billion euros, Fassmer has reached an all-time high. Eight new construction projects – from fishing research vessels to offshore patrol vessels – ensure long-term capacity utilization for the shipyard. Despite global uncertainties and rising cost pressures, the company is thus sending a strong signal of stability and sustainability. Key components include consistent digitalization, investments in new production facilities, and the development of innovative, climate-friendly propulsion systems.

In his speech, Lower Saxony's Minister President Olaf Lies emphasized the special importance of the maritime industry for Lower Saxony as a business location and highlighted Fassmer's role as a technologically leading family-owned company.

In several speeches, Fassmer traced the company's transformation from a regional craft business to an internationally sought-after specialist shipbuilder. It became clear that the company's success is based on team spirit, innovative strength, and the courage to break new ground.

In addition to welcoming speeches by District Administrator Siefken, VSM Managing Director Dr. Lüken, and the Oldenburg Chamber of Industry and Commerce, the focus was also on the sixth generation of entrepreneurs. As a sign of continuity and new beginnings, the “next generation” introduced itself to the audience.

A highlight was the visit on board the 125-meter-long METEOR IV, currently the shipyard's largest newbuild. The modern research vessel is being built in collaboration with Meyer Werft and exemplifies Fassmer's technological excellence and international partnerships.

Photos: 2B Media