Large Crowd at STELA Laxhuber's Open House
The open house at STELA in Massing on Saturday, June 20, 2026, was a great success. The event marked the tenth anniversary of the company’s building on Laxhuberplatz. Despite the midsummer heat, more than 1,000 guests took the opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look at the internationally active manufacturer of drying systems.
The audience was a diverse mix: from interested local residents to families, potential job applicants, trainees, and business partners—the event was aimed at the entire region and was well received.
To kick things off, visitors gained insights into the family-owned company’s development, product portfolio, and future strategy during a company presentation. They then had the opportunity to experience production up close during a tour featuring a total of 16 stations. A particular highlight was that each work area was presented directly by the employees working there, who were also available to answer questions.
The tour began in the design, work planning, and CAD/CAM programming departments, where the systems are precisely engineered on computers—depending on the model, they consist of 5,000 to 25,000 individual parts. The tour continued through sheet metal processing—featuring laser and nibbling machines as well as press brakes—and on to fan manufacturing. This is where the components central to the drying process are produced; after manufacturing, they undergo comprehensive testing. A particular highlight was the welding robot, which produces fan impellers with diameters of up to 1,500 millimeters in significantly less time than manual production. Further stops, such as air heater construction, station assembly, and the pre-assembly of belt dryers, eventually led to the control technology section. For this area, colleagues from STELA Steuerungstechnik—based on Öttinger Straße in Massing—presented a control cabinet on site and explained their contribution to the entire value chain.
The event was also exceptionally well organized: The Staudach Volunteer Fire Department handled traffic control and parking management, while the BRK Rottal-Inn Massing provided medical care—a vital support given the high temperatures. Refreshments were also provided: Gentscher Catering served food and drinks to the guests, offering welcome refreshment.
In addition to offering insights into production, the day provided numerous opportunities for personal interaction. Many visitors took the opportunity to talk with employees, trainers, and apprentices to learn more about everyday work at stela. A photo spot in the entrance area invited visitors to capture memories and was heavily used. Interactive activities were also well-received: Using VR headsets, guests could simulate welding tasks themselves and thus gain a practical impression of the work. Additionally, a skill game developed by trainees in the form of a contest provided entertainment.
The high number of visitors underscores the great interest in this long-established company, which plays a leading role worldwide with its drying solutions. With this successful open house, stela Laxhuber not only celebrated the site’s anniversary but also strengthened its close ties to the region.
