Made in Germany since 1919

We stand for innovation, responsibility and quality – for more than 100 years.
As a reliable partner for packaging elements, we develop solutions that set standards – sustainable, precise and tailored to the requirements of our customers.

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Our history –
Consistent for generations

No order is too small, none too large – this has been E-K-S’s philosophy since 1919.

Founded by Ernst Kraemer as a machine and device manufacturer, the company quickly developed into a recognised specialist in tool and mould making for the plastics processing industry.

The era of packaging technology began in 1964: with the first injection moulding tool for a carrying handle, a product was created that is still successfully produced today – the EKS 764. This milestone laid the foundation for our comprehensive range of handles and accessories for the packaging industry.



Today, packaging technology is our core business, complemented by contract injection moulding and the assembly of components as well as new products in close cooperation with our customers.

Since 2017, E-K-S has been part of the owner-managed FRÖTEK Group and continues to operate as an independent unit. Investments in the location, short delivery times and consistently high quality secure our future. Thanks to networking within the FRÖTEK Group, we can now also provide direct support to our customers in Hungary, Ukraine, China and North America.

1919 – Foundation and beginnings

In 1919, Mr Kraemer founded the company Ernst Kraemer & Söhne (E-K-S) in Tönisvorst. The company specialised in the manufacture of high-quality plastic injection moulding tools, particularly for the production of plastic hair combs. Due to their outstanding quality, these tools were soon in demand worldwide and were exported internationally.

1964 – Entry into the packaging market

After E-K-S had already purchased its own injection moulding machine for production sampling, the idea arose in 1964 to make better use of this machine. In order to avoid competing with existing customers – hair comb manufacturers – Mr Kraemer developed a new product range: plastic handles. The first plastic handles were produced using the EKS 764.0 and the larger EKS 964. This marked E-K-S’s successful entry into the packaging market.

1991 – Sustainable innovation

Another milestone was the development of the EKS 891, the first reusable plastic lock for packaging. This lock was a sustainable alternative to staples and adhesive tape and can be reused multiple times. E-K-S thus set an early example for environmentally friendly and resource-saving packaging solutions.

2000 – Introduction of bayonet locks

In 2000, E-K-S expanded its product portfolio to include reusable bayonet locks. These sustainable packaging locks featured various connection distances, optional seals and locking pins. This made it possible to apply a originality seal to packaging while still allowing it to be reused multiple times.

2017 – Acquisition by the FRÖTEK Group

In 2017, E-K-S Tönisvorst became part of the FRÖTEK Group. Despite the takeover, the site remained fully operational with production, administration and warehousing. Under the new management of Managing Director Sascha Brothuhn and sales representative Florian Banse, E-K-S benefited from the comprehensive expertise of the entire group of companies – particularly in the areas of research, development, design and toolmaking. At the same time, the development of a sustainable product line based on alternative materials began.

2018 – Introduction of E-K-S Bioline® sugar cane

With E-K-S Bioline® sugar cane, E-K-S launched a bio-based product line. These products are made from renewable raw materials that are sourced under ISCC-plus-certified conditions. The material is 100% mechanically recyclable and enables CO₂ savings of around 4 kg per kilogram of material.

2019 – Addition of E-K-S Bioline® paper fibre

A year later, E-K-S Bioline® paper fibre was introduced. This material is based on cellulose and chalk, consists of at least 99% biological raw materials and is industrially compostable. It decomposes completely without microplastics and has a natural light brown colour, which makes additional colouring unnecessary.

2022 – Introduction of handling solutions made from 100% paper

In 2022, E-K-S Tönisvorst added handles and reinforcement elements made from 100% paper to its product range. These products represent a sustainable alternative to conventional plastic handling solutions. A particular advantage is that the paper solutions can remain directly on the packaging and are fully processed in the corrugated cardboard recycling cycle.

2023 – Transition to recycled plastics

In 2023, E-K-S began transitioning standard materials such as polypropylene entirely to post-consumer recyclates. In collaboration with our partner, we are committed to a closed material cycle by using recycled material from previously used plastic products. This transition resulted in a CO₂ reduction of approximately 1.6 kg per kilogram of material.

2025 – Transition to recycled material made from LDPE

As a further step towards sustainability, the material LDPE was converted to a recycled basis in 2025. The proportion of post-consumer recycled material is 35%, supplemented by 65% post-industrial recycled material. This development underlines E-K-S’s commitment to environmentally friendly production methods and a sustainable future.

2026 – Transition to recycled material made from HDPE

E-K-S Tönisvorst plans to transition from HDPE to a sustainable recycled variant by 2026. The new material will consist of 35% post-consumer recyclate and 65% post-industrial recyclate. This switch will also enable the proven heavy-duty handles – which can withstand loads of up to 75 kg per handle – to be manufactured from a more environmentally friendly material in future. This is a further step towards sustainable product development and material responsibility.

1. Analysis

A solid foundation for every project


Every project phase begins with a thorough analysis. We examine the requirements, stresses and conditions of the future product and compare these with material properties, manufacturing options and economic objectives. Using digital simulations, CAD models and feasibility studies, we create a secure foundation for all further steps. This ensures that function, quality and costs are optimally coordinated even before the first draft.

2. Construction

Precise tool development for maximum process reliability

Based on the analysis, we develop precise moulding tools and component geometries that are perfectly tailored to the desired product. We take into account demoulding, material flow, tool cooling and all relevant technical details in order to achieve a high level of process reliability. The design is created in close consultation with production and quality assurance so that each tool accurately reflects subsequent series production and delivers consistent results.

3. Mass production

Efficient manufacturing with consistently high quality

In series production, the designed components are implemented under real conditions. High-quality tools, precisely coordinated parameters and automated processes ensure repeatable quality with every single cycle time. Our machines produce precise dimensional accuracy and a uniform appearance, while ongoing process controls ensure stability. The result is a reliable series that meets technical requirements and expectations for premium quality.

Our management

The management team at Ernst Kraemer & Söhne combines long-term vision with operational expertise. As an owner-managed company, we are committed to making decisions that have a lasting impact – for our customers, employees and partners.
We see management not as a position, but as an attitude: reliable, solution-oriented and forward-looking.

Our management thinks technically, acts humanely and leads the company with a clear focus on quality, efficiency and further development. Short communication channels, direct communication and a daily focus on the essentials characterise our leadership.

Sascha Brothuhn

Geschäftsführer

Florian Banse

Prokurist

Values. Vision. Mission.

Values that carry weight – just like our products.

As a family business, we stand for reliability, quality and responsibility. Our thinking and actions are characterised by a handshake mentality, technical precision and sustainable business practices. We value clear communication, fair partnerships and long-term trust.

Our vision:

We are part of shaping the future of the packaging market – with intelligent handle and locking systems that combine functionality, sustainability and ergonomics. In doing so, we remain flexible, solution-oriented and always close to the needs of our customers.

Our mission:

We develop, produce and supply high-quality handle and connecting elements for packaging – efficiently, individually and reliably. In doing so, we rely on cross-generational expertise, modern manufacturing and the commitment to continuously improve our products and processes.

Because what we manufacture should not only last – it should carry on.

Tangible quality across generations.