Cramp in transition: New ways with three-way tippers and chip trailers

Some time ago, Krampe announced, "We are now also building three-way tippers." This announcement came as a surprise to many, as the market in this segment was considered largely saturated. Additionally, the innovation potential for traditional trailers seemed limited. However, as a specialist in transport solutions, Krampe wanted to expand its product portfolio - and three-way tippers were now in demand. Remarkable was the speed of development that the manufacturer from Münsterland presented.

Background: The Reisch Insolvency

At Agritechnica 2023, the news of the insolvency of the vehicle manufacturer Reisch spread quickly. Reisch was well-known in the industry, listed at major dealers, and had an extensive distribution network. Shortly thereafter, considerations for a takeover were in the air. However, ultimately many factors spoke against it: the significant geographical distance, and the rather artisanal work that was not geared towards high automation levels did not align with the company's philosophy. In Coesfeld, Krampe, on the other hand, continuously invests in modern halls and machines. Capacity expansions are also planned for future products.

Closing the Gap in the Dealer Network

With the discontinuation of Reisch tippers, many dealers faced a gap. Krampe wanted to seize the opportunity. The in-house development of a three-way tipper was intended to fill the gap that had arisen. Dealers should not even have to look for other suppliers. Hence the idea: a complete program from a single source - exactly what the trade desired. The market response was positive - many dealers signaled trust and patience.

The Pressure Rises - and so do the Expectations

Now it was time to deliver. The market for three-way tippers is fiercely competitive, with many products coming from low-wage countries and being price-aggressive accordingly. Krampe cannot deviate too much from the price - yet the known quality, brand image, and functional highlights should provide added value. The FlexBody is based on a modular concept: chassis, bridge, and side walls can be freely combined in a modular principle. This system construction not only allows for adaptation to individual uses and advantages in spare parts supply but also ensures that Krampe can offer the tippers at a market-standard price. Over 13 months, Krampe regularly informed distribution partners about the development status and early on used teasers and communication. Finally, in late April, the first vehicles of the pilot series were presented to the dealers.

Moving Away from Truck Trailers

Previously, Krampe was also active in the area of truck trailers. However, this market was too fiercely competitive, not easily standardizable, and resource-intensive. "Special solutions consumed capacities, a clearly defined series could not be established. Moreover, the distribution was structured differently - direct sales did not fit us," said Robin Krampe. While 15 years of trailer construction brought relatively little profit, three times as many Rambody tipper trailers were sold within just one and a half years. The decision: "We stay behind the tractor."

Kaweco as the Next Chapter

In 2025, things got exciting again: The brand Kaweco from the Netherlands was up for sale. Since Krampe did not have silage transport trailers in its range, at least part of the offer was strategically interesting. Ultimately, Kotte from Rieste took over the entire package of manure and silage transport trailers: all production rights as well as the service and spare parts business of the traditional Dutch manufacturer. In an open discussion between Kotte and Krampe, the Coesfeld company expressed interest in silage transport trailers - thus, the vehicle manufacturer had the opportunity to take over the Radium trailers. The deal was sealed at the end of 2024.

Seamless Integration of the Radium Trailers

One advantage: the Kaweco design drawings fit well into the Krampe system. Furthermore, the quality is right. "The Radium silage trailers are known for their good quality and value stability. Two characteristics that our Krampe trailers also stand for. Therefore, the four new vehicle types fit well into the existing product portfolio and close a gap between the BigBody tipping trailer and the Krampe RamBody push-off trailer," said Robin Krampe. At the upcoming Agritechnica, Krampe will present a revised version of the Radium trailer - including a new chassis, EU type approval, and ISOBUS control. 30 vehicles are set to roll off the production line for the 2026 grass campaign. The feedback from dealers is promising - even though the competition is strong. Krampe hopes for a strong pull from the end customer market, as the news of the entry was positively received.

Production Capacities Under Pressure

With the new product lines of silage transport trailers and three-way tippers, the plant in Coesfeld is reaching its limits. Therefore, Krampe is relocating part of the production - especially the final assembly of the established Carrier dump trailers - back to the former plant in Lette. Outsourcing to third parties was out of the question, as manufacturing depth and the Made by Krampe seal are central to the brand. The Radium trailers, on the other hand, will remain in Coesfeld - due to their proximity to the design department.

Growth Needs People

In addition to the technical infrastructure, Krampe is also focusing on expanding the team: 40 new employees are to be hired. The company enjoys a good reputation in the Coesfeld region and is considered a secure employer for the future. Even in difficult times, Krampe has invested in growth - a signal that was well received. To attract new skilled workers, Krampe uses both traditional and creative methods: career days including speed dating, job advertisements, radio spots, and cinema advertising. The company consciously avoids temporary work. The turnover is low, and the team is young. Further education - such as becoming a technician or master - promotes employee retention, according to experiences. Currently, the vehicle manufacturer is training 24 apprentices.

Strategic Focus on Europe

Internationally, Krampe is expanding its sales network - exclusively through dealers, not importers. Around 35 percent of the total production goes abroad, with the export share for push-off trailers even reaching 50 percent. Growth drivers are primarily technically sophisticated products. Currently, the focus is on Scandinavia, France, the Czech Republic, and Poland. The new step is into Italy. Targeted support by country-specific sales staff - instead of being managed from Coesfeld - is part of the strategy.