50 years of turning visions into reality: TCS’s commitment to excellence and entrepreneurial growth

TCS (Timmers Cranes and Steelworks), a leading name in steel construction, industrial cranes, turnkey projects and lifecycle services, is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Founded in 1975 by visionary brothers Jef and Denie Timmers, the company began its journey with a small, determined team and has grown into a global player in the steelworks and industrial construction sectors.

As TCS commemorates five decades of hard work, innovation, and expansion, it reflects on its remarkable journey from a modest start to its current position as a leader in industrial steel and crane solutions.

The Timmers brothers, sons of a mason, were already well-coordinated when they launched "pvba Gebroeders Timmers," a small steel construction business, in January 1975. Starting in a humble old workshop along the Grote Baan in Houthalen, Belgium, they were determined to provide better solutions to meet the growing industrial demands. Their focus on quality and innovation led them to design and produce steel structures.

In the early years, the company’s success was driven by its entrepreneurial spirit and the ability to expand its capabilities. In 1976, the Timmers brothers built a new production facility at the Europark in Houthalen, marking the beginning of the company’s rapid growth. Not long after, the brothers received requests to manufacture industrial cranes, setting the stage for pvba Gebroeders Timmers to become the largest crane manufacturer in Belgium.

By the 1980s, the company began to scale up, attracting talented engineers, project managers, and skilled workers. It was during this time that the company also embraced the digital revolution, adopting study and design software that would prove to be a key factor in its continued success. By 1987, the company became the limited liability company “Timmers nv.”

A milestone came in 1992 when the brothers established Group Timmers to expand internationally and invested in a young German steel company, EPESTA. Just one year later, EPESTA opened new offices and a steelworks facility in Blankenburg (Harz), becoming a vital member of Group Timmers.

"True value comes from expertise and collaboration. Our employees and partnerships, both internal and external, are the cornerstone of our growth and innovation. By working hand-in-hand with our customers and partners, we are able to transform visions into reality. It's this shared commitment to excellence and mutual success that drives us forward as we celebrate 50 years of enduring partnerships and look toward a future built on trust and innovation," says Bert Timmers, Managing Director of Group Timmers.

Meanwhile, the Timmers company in Houthalen-Helchteren continued to grow, earning certifications and qualifications, including the highest German certification for the fabrication of complex steel structures.

In 1999, Group Timmers took major steps by acquiring a competitive Belgian industrial contractor and establishing a production facility in the Czech Republic: ESP I.

In 2007, the Belgian sites were merged and rebranded as TCS (Timmers Cranes and Steelworks). A new generation of non-family managers guided the company through a period of transition with a clear focus on cranes, steelworks, and general contracting. With a global footprint and an ever-expanding portfolio, TCS became known for its ability to handle complex projects, such as the construction of large steel plants, industrial crane installations, and turnkey industrial projects.

Key to TCS's success was its highly skilled workforce and its ability to integrate engineering expertise with cutting-edge technology.

Meanwhile, Group Timmers further strengthened its international position by acquiring a majority stake in an engineering and architecture firm in Aachen: Lievens und Partner.

Group Timmers's international expansion at a glance

• 1992: First international acquisition through capital increase in German steelworks company EPESTA.
• 1999: Acquisition of a competing Belgian industrial contractor and establishment of ESP I, a production facility in Prachatice, Czech Republic.
• 2010: Majority stake taken in Lievens und Partner, a long-standing engineering and architecture firm in Aachen, Germany.
• 2018: Establishment of additional engineering firm LTing in České Budějovice (Budweiss), Czech Republic.
• 2021: Spiess Krane, a renowned crane manufacturer in Solingen, Germany joins the group.

Today, Group Timmers remains a family-owned business with 250 employees across six companies, 120 of whom work at TCS. The company continues to grow by delivering high-quality engineering solutions for clients worldwide. TCS's commitment to excellence in design, manufacturing, and service has earned it a reputation as one of the most reliable and innovative companies in the steelworks and crane manufacturing industries.

As TCS celebrates 50 years of expertise and commitment, it remains focused on the future, driven by the same entrepreneurial spirit that Jef and Denie Timmers had when they founded the company. With a strong engineering team, advanced design capabilities, and a focus on sustainability, we are ready to tackle the challenges of the next 50 years, continuing to provide innovative and reliable solutions for its clients across the globe.

Name evolution of TCS

• 1975: Founded as pvba Gebroeders Timmers by brothers Jef and Denie Timmers in Houthalen.
• 1987: The company is transformed into Timmers nv, building a strong reputation in steel construction and crane building.
• 2007: All Belgian sites merged and rebranded from Timmers nv to TCS – Timmers Cranes and Steelworks, highlighting its dual focus on cranes and steel structures.

TCS recognizes that the future of innovation lies in the hands of the next generation of leaders, which is why the company is dedicated to attracting and developing young talent. By providing a dynamic platform for collaboration, learning, and real-world experience, TCS empowers young professionals to build the confidence they need to excel. The focus is not only on what they can achieve today but also on shaping them into the innovators and problem-solvers of tomorrow.

The TCS Academy plays a key role in this mission, offering a supportive environment where young professionals can grow and develop. Through hands-on learning, mentorship, and exposure to cutting-edge projects, the Academy equips them with the necessary skills and confidence to succeed. This investment in their growth helps to strengthen TCS's employer branding, positioning the company as an employer of choice, while ensuring future leaders are well-prepared to make an impact.

TCS’s commitment to employer branding reflects a strong emphasis on fostering an inclusive and supportive culture. Through mentorship programs, skill-building initiatives, and opportunities to engage in groundbreaking projects, TCS continues to attract and nurture the brightest minds, creating an environment where potential is recognized, and growth is encouraged.

Entrepreneurship at TCS thrives on a dual commitment: the first, from within our internal teams, where every employee embodies an entrepreneurial spirit. Our people go beyond the status quo, constantly striving to innovate and exceed expectations. We encourage a mindset where each team member feels empowered to take ownership, act as problem solvers, and deliver with urgency, ensuring we go that extra mile for our customers.

The second commitment stems from our business philosophy: we understand that the clients we attract are visionary leaders themselves, driven by dreams that require not only innovative solutions but a strong, unwavering partnership. The path to their goals often involves overcoming challenges and adapting to dynamic needs, and it’s this very commitment that we reciprocate. We provide more than just service excellence; we offer dedication to bringing their vision to life, ensuring that their dreams are met with the same level of passion and persistence that fuels our company.

"We’re proud to celebrate 50 years of innovation, and we believe our entrepreneurial mindset will continue to help us serve visionary customers for decades to come," said Bert Zimmermann, CEO of TCS.

Looking ahead, TCS remains committed to its core values of quality, expertise, and a hands-on approach, building on the legacy of Jef and Denie Timmers. Through continuous innovation and a dedicated workforce, TCS is well-positioned to thrive in the years to come, securing its place as a leader in steel construction, industrial cranes, and turnkey projects.