Skip to main content Skip to search Skip to main navigation

History

The history of Ocono Ruhrkunststoff GmbH goes back to 1953, when Hans-Georg Schauenburg laid the foundation in Mülheim an der Ruhr for a company that has played a key role in shaping the development of high-quality spiral plastic hoses over the decades. From its early beginnings in the manufacturing of cooking pots and ventilation systems for the mining industry to its current position as a diversified manufacturer of high-quality hose solutions made from nearly all thermoplastic materials, this history demonstrates how experience, technological advancement, and entrepreneurial strength have unfolded step by step. 

Here you will find the most important milestones of a development that has shaped not only Ocono Ruhrkunststoff but also the industry as a whole.

Strength in the Roots

1953 - Founding of SCHAUENBURG Ruhrkunststoff GmbH

The history of Ocono Ruhrkunststoff began in 1953 in Mülheim an der Ruhr, at that time still known as SCHAUENBURG Ruhrkunststoff GmbH. What began with clear industrial requirements and a strong pioneering spirit evolved over the decades into a company that has consistently expanded its technological capabilities, production expertise, and market focus. The following milestones illustrate how Ocono Ruhrkunststoff has evolved step by step – from its early days as a specialist to its current strength in the field of high-quality hose solutions.

Bürogebäude, Straße, Autobahn, Asphalt

1972
Relocation to Weseler Straße

With the 1972 relocation to Weseler Straße (see previous photos), the company moved into its current headquarters in Mülheim an der Ruhr. This location laid the basis for further growth, modern manufacturing, and the ongoing expansion of the company’s infrastructure. The following years were marked by technological advancements in manufacturing and production processes, and the company continued to grow steadily.


1991
Construction of Two New Production Facilities

Following a devastating fire in 1991, two new production facilities were built. This significantly expanded production and storage capacity and strengthened the foundation for the company’s continued growth. An increasing number of product lines and new developments became part of the company’s portfolio, while expansion into neighboring countries and markets continued to grow.

Trade Fairs & Public Relations

Trade fairs have always been an important part of Ocono Ruhrkunststoff’s corporate development. They provide an opportunity to present solutions, strengthen personal connections, and gain new insights from the market and real-world applications. In this way, they have not only shaped our interactions with customers and partners but also guided Ocono Ruhrkunststoff’s path to where we are today.

2000 & 2001
Modernization of Production Facilities & Implementation of GENESIS® Production Line

By modernizing its production facilities, Ocono Ruhrkunststoff is systematically expanding its manufacturing capabilities. This step strengthens the company’s technological foundation and opens up new opportunities for quality, efficiency, and further development. With a new production line for the GENESIS® brand, the portfolio is being expanded to include profiled hoses without spiral reinforcement. This expands the product range to include additional solutions for gases, liquids, and solids. At the same time, an ever-growing network of companies is forming around Ocono (formerly Schauenburg Hose Technology Group), which, as a group, serves national and international markets with hose solutions.


from 2011
Focus on Sustainability & Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG)

The installation of a photovoltaic system covering more than 2,600 m² marks a step toward sustainable development. Production facilities, technology, and water circulation systems are also being continuously improved. At the same time, the first production series are receiving the “Eco Friendly” label. From this point on, the entire area of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) has become an increasingly important focus for Ocono Ruhrkunststoff. Through dedicated stakeholder management, the company strives to create shared value that equally considers environmental, social, and economic aspects.

2016 & 2021
Registration of SMARTFLEX® Trademark & Tripling of Warehouse Capacity

During this phase, warehouses and production capacity will be further modernized and expanded. At the same time, SMARTFLEX® will be registered as a trademark, enhancing the company’s profile in the field of versatile spiral hoses. As production capacity continues to expand, the warehouse infrastructure will also grow significantly. The increased warehouse capacity will improve availability and flexibility and enable the company to meet customer requirements even more effectively.


April 2026
New Company Name and Brand

Following a comprehensive rebranding process, Ocono Ruhrkunststoff GmbH (formerly SCHAUENBURG Ruhrkunststoff GmbH) has been operating under a new brand name since April 2026. The goal is to better create synergies within Ocono’s (formerly Schauenburg Hose Technology Group) individual production and sales units, both nationally and internationally, for the benefit of customers. For customers, partners, and our own employees, this is a groundbreaking step into the future, consistent and with many synergistic effects. 

Ocono Ruhrkunststoff stands for extensive experience, broad technical expertise, and a strong industrial base in Mülheim an der Ruhr. The company combines many years of manufacturing experience with high-quality hose solutions, in-house development expertise, personalized customer service, and a broad focus on various industries and applications.

Rebranding 2026

Ocono Worldwide

Discover Ocono worldwide and find out more about our locations, markets and international presence. This will give you an overview of where Ocono operates and how we build close relationships with customers and partners around the globe. With us, you will always find the right hose solution for your needs, wherever you are!

Ocono Worldwide

Never Miss Latest News Again!

Our newsletter keeps you up to date. Find everything you need to know about events, products, promotions and other key topics from the hose industry that will be of interest to you. We are looking forward to your registration.

Subscribe to Newsletter