Lingel Windows: A Legacy of Innovation and Quality in the Fenestration Industry
An Interview with Dr H.C. Mario Schmidt, Managing Director of Lingel India and Plant Head Director, Lingel Germany
The fenestration business, which focuses on doors, windows, and other architectural features, has a significant impact on how buildings look and operate. Karl Lingel Fensterbau GmbH & Co. KG has continually established the standard in this industry. Lingel, founded in 1959 in Ellwangen, Germany, has been a pioneer in providing innovative and high-quality fenestration solutions throughout Europe and in India since 2006
In this interview, we explore the company’s journey, innovations, and vision for the future, guided by Dr. H. C Mario Schmidt, the Managing Director of Lingel India and Plant Head Director of Lingel Germany.
A Glimpse into Lingel’s History and Mission
Karl Lingel Fensterbau GmbH & Co. KG, founded in 1959, has established itself as a prominent maker of high-quality doors and windows in Germany and throughout Europe. The firm has two manufacturing facilities in Germany, in Ellwangen and Lichtenstein, and has increased its production capacity by constructing a plant in Romania. With over sixty five years of expertise in the fenestration sector, Lingel’s objective is to provide high-quality workmanship while providing innovative solutions to its consumers.
In India, the company’s new giga manufacturing unit in Rewari, Haryana, spans over 125,000 square feet and has a production capacity of 14,000 units per month. This facility allows Lingel to cater to a broader range of customers, reducing wait times and enhancing service efficiency
According to Dr. H.C. Mario Schmidt, Lingel’s mission is built on several core principles:
- Offering free professional consultations and quotes to prospective customers.
- Providing comprehensive project planning and design consultations at no extra cost.
- Ensuring specialized site inspection and supervision without additional charges.
- Delivering innovative and high-quality solutions at affordable prices.
- Continuously updating knowledge and skills to stay ahead of advancements in the fenestration industry.
- Ensuring a dedicated sales team for each project, overseeing it from inception to completion.
The Journey of Dr. H.C. Mario Schmidt
Dr. H. C. Mario Schmidt’s career in fenestration began in 1994, after he completed his mechanical science studies. He chose to specialize in the fenestration business since he has a strong
interest in innovation and design. His entry into India in 2006 heralded the beginning of a watershed moment for the country’s UPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride) industry. At the time, UPVC was a relatively obscure material in India, necessitating extensive efforts to educate purchasers about its merits.
As Dr. Schmidt recalls, “The UPVC sector was only getting established, and there were not many players. Since many people were unaware of UPVC, it was crucial to educate the buyer.” Starting from scratch, he gradually built a dedicated team, many of whom continue to work at Lingel in senior roles.
Lingel India expanded its footprint beyond Rajasthan to other parts of the country under Dr. Schmidt’s supervision. Lingel now ranks among India’s top five fenestration brands, demonstrating the company’s dedication to quality and innovation. With over 20 years of industry experience, Dr. Schmidt’s professional trajectory has been distinguished by various milestones, notably his position as Germany’s youngest General Manager in the window and door business.
He credits much of his success to the supervision and assistance of Mr. Karl Lingel, the founder of Lingel Fensterbau GmbH & Co. KG. “The voyage has been great and fruitful under Mr. Karl Lingel’s direction. “I’d like to credit him as a great leader and mentor for my success,” Dr. Schmidt says.
Innovation and Vision
Innovation has always been at the heart of Lingel’s business strategy. As Dr. Schmidt explains, the company considers itself a trendsetter in the fenestration industry. One of its early innovations was the introduction of double shutters for windows in 2008-2009. This design, where the glass shutter opens outward and the mesh shutter opens inward, was a first in India.
Another notable innovation was the integrated grill provision, where windows are supplied with inbuilt security grills. In 2010, Lingel ventured into glass conservatories and glass houses, a product that has been further developed through extensive research and development efforts, especially during and after the pandemic.
“We have also created the largest aluminum system that India has ever seen, and these are well-adapted by our potential and existing customers,” says Dr. Schmidt. The company’s R&D efforts are closely coordinated with its German headquarters, ensuring that Lingel can introduce cutting-edge technologies to the Indian market. One such example is the glass houses and conservatories, which have been modified to fit the budget constraints of Indian consumers, thereby creating a wider market for these unique products.
Looking ahead, Lingel aims to continue expanding its product offerings while ensuring that customer needs remain a top priority. Dr. Schmidt emphasizes the importance of customer trust, stating that 60-70% of Lingel’s customers are reference customers, a clear indication of the company’s reliability and high standards.
“We see ourselves not just growing in the number of customers we cater to but also with the number of innovations that make us a market leader,” he boasts. The company’s goal for the
future involves a sustained emphasis on ecologically friendly activities, such as lowering its carbon footprint and teaching the young generation through skill-building programs.
A Diverse and Expansive Business Portfolio
Lingel’s portfolio of products and services caters to a wide range of customer needs, from residential projects to commercial establishments. The company’s expertise spans across:
- High-end timber or oak wood windows
- Glass conservatories
- Window sills
- Venetian blinds
- Roller shutters (manual and automatic)
- Skylights
One of Lingel’s flagship products is the Aluminum System 6.0, which was launched in 2017. This product combines the aesthetic appeal of wooden or uPVC windows with the durability and strength of aluminum. It offers a variety of solutions, including entrance doors, sliding and folding systems, and casement windows. The company also provides thermal break aluminum solutions for superior heat insulation, produced in Germany and imported to India.
Lingel’s product lineup also includes Oakwood (timber) windows, known for their classic look and texture, and the Lingel Panzer Glazing (LPG) and Lingel Safety Box (LSB), which offer a perfect combination of glazing and hardware for enhanced security.
Recently, Lingel introduced five new products to the market:
- Motorized skylights
- Roof pitched windows
- Top-hung roof windows
- New handle selections
- New powder coating finishes
Each product is designed to meet the diverse needs of Lingel’s customers, ensuring that they have access to the latest innovations in fenestration technology.
Customer-Centric Approach
Lingel’s business approach revolves around a commitment to putting the client first. The organization guarantees that its clients receive the finest possible service and product quality by providing a dedicated customer support staff and direct access to top management. Dr. Schmidt personally handles client enquiries and comments, ensuring that concerns are dealt quickly and efficiently.
The company’s significant emphasis on training and growth helps it stand apart. The Lingel Training Academy, which was founded in recent years, guarantees that the company’s personnel have the knowledge and abilities required to deliver accurate information and high-quality service to consumers. Special trainers from Germany are brought in to teach the Indian team, hence increasing the company’s experience.
Closing Thoughts
Dr. H .C. Mario Schmidt shows his great devotion to India and its consumers as he looks back on his 18-year stay. “Throughout these 18 years, I have ensured that the customer gets the best fenestration solution,” he explains. His recommendation to customers is to focus on the quality of the product and the brand’s inventive ideas.
Dr. Schmidt and the Lingel team’s journey is far from done. Lingel, with an emphasis on innovation, customer happiness, and environmental responsibility, is prepared to continue leading the fenestration industry for many years to come.
