The Company’s origins:
1919 – the trading company Gottfried Schill KG is founded in Stuttgart.
1952 – competitors found Schippert & Stetter KG.
1975 – the two companies merge to become VBH Vereinigter Baubeschlag Handel.

1982 – the export business is launched with the first Western European branches.
1987 – within Germany VBH sells its products from its head office in Korntal-Münchingen. Sales increase six fold since the merger in 1975.
1988 – the VBH companies are integrated into a public limited company.
1989 – the Company is floated on the stock exchange.
1990 – following the reunification of Germany VBH expands its extensive sales and logistics structure to Eastern Germany and subsequently to Eastern Europe.
1993 – VBH becomes European market leader thanks to its steady international expansion. Further companies are acquired and branches established in Western and Southern Europe, as well as in Russia.
1996 – VBH employs 1,652 staff worldwide and has over 40 branches in Germany. esco Metallbaubeschläge GmbH is also integrated into the Group.
1997 – VBH opens branches in China and Singapore, enabling it to serve the Asian market. It also expands its presence in Southeast Europe.
1998 – the VBH-esco Technology Centre, which develops exclusive products for the window market together with renowned industry partners, is founded.
2000 – VBH establishes a branch in Australia.
 

2001 – the crisis in the German construction industry forces VBH to implement restructuring measures. By contrast, sales outside of Germany grow steadily, particularly in Eastern and Southern Europe. A branch is founded in Dubai, UAE.
As of 2004, VBH turns changes from a trading company into a service provider, thus countering the market-led decline in Germany. VBH is a key partner for many customers, whom it supports with innovative services and solutions.
2008 – VBH employs around 3,000 staff worldwide, achieving sales of Euro 880 million. VBH generates around 60% of its sales outside Germany. The Company is represented by 130 branches in 40 countries. Since 1 April, the Executive Board has comprised Rainer Hribar and Dr. Ralf Lieb.