The History of Fortal Group

Since 1981, Fortal Group has evolved from a craftsman manufacturing wooden ladders in Alsace to an innovative and recognised mid-sized company specialising in secure height access solutions. Over the decades, its growth has been driven by constant innovation, aluminium production expertise and several strategic acquisitions, expanding its know-how to ladders, scaffolding, platforms, shelving and bespoke solutions.

Today, with over 190 employees and a national and international presence, Fortal Group remains true to its core values: safety, quality and customer proximity.

1981

January 1

Acquisition of FORTAL

Jacques Ruffenach and Bernard Grewey acquire FORTAL, a wooden ladder manufacturing company based in Barr (Alsace), with an initial workforce of 3 employees and revenue of 1 million French francs. The company progressively specializes in aluminium, reaching 5.9 million French francs in revenue and 10 employees by 1987.

1983

January 1

Foundation of MASTOK

Foundation of MASTOK (handling and storage equipment company), later absorbed into ECHAMAT

1988

January 1

Foundation of ECHAMAT

Foundation of ECHAMAT, specializing in scaffolding and height access equipment sales

1990

January 1

Acquisition of MEC’AGRA

Acquisition of MEC’AGRA (Mechanical and Metal Construction of Gertwiller), which was later absorbed into FORTAL

2007

January 1

The FORTAL Group has 120 employees

The FORTAL Group employs 120 people and achieves €19 million in turnover

2008

January 1

Acquisition of KERNST

Acquisition of KERNST (Fegersheim), experts in the distribution and resale of construction equipment and materials

2021

January 1

Acquisition of ACBI

Acquisition of ACBI (Île-de-France), a specialist in fall protection and height safety solutions

2024

January 1

FORTAL reaches 180 employees

FORTAL reaches 180 employees and a turnover of €58 million

2025

January 1

Acquisition of ORESA

Acquisition of ORESA (Alsace), specializing in space planning, furnishing and shelving solutions