Erwin Hymer

Erwin Hymer ( born July 27, 1930 in Bad Waldsee, † April 11, 2013 ) was a German entrepreneur and founder of the caravan or motorhome manufacturer Hymer.

Biography

After a mechanical engineer studying the toolmaker Hymer initially worked for three years in the team of Claudius Dornier aircraft manufacturer and the process of design of the Dornier Delta, a small car. He joined his father's business in Bad Waldsee, the rubber-tired trailer produced for tractors.

In 1957 he founded, together with the designer and airplane pioneer Erich Bachem the sales company Eriba and developed the prototype of a caravan ( " Ur -Troll "). In 1961 she developed together with Borgward a first motor home. 1971 was followed by the first motorhome.

He expanded the range of products in the years to acquisitions of caravan and motorhome manufacturer, Niesmann Bischoff, Burstner, Laika and Carado and accessories brand Movera. At the holding company Dethleffs, Sunlight, LMC and TEC were involved. Last generated 2780 employees an annual turnover of EUR 859 million.

In 2007 he resigned from the Supervisory Board. Hymer devoted himself to his Erwin Hymer Foundation, with which he built the Erwin Hymer Museum at its headquarters. At the top of the foundation succeeded him recently from his daughter Carolin.

He was awarded the Public Service Medal in the town of Bad Waldsee and in 2000 with the Federal Cross of Merit.