The family-owned company from Germany celebrates a century of innovation, quality, and sustainability in the pool industry.
For 100 years, Grando has stood for premium swimming pool cover solutions. Founded in Bergisch Gladbach, Germany, the family-owned business has evolved from a small carpentry workshop into an internationally recognized specialist for automatic pool covers, serving customers in more than 50 countries worldwide.
From a Small Carpentry Workshop to an Entrepreneurial Vision
Grando’s story began in 1924, when Hubert Granderath established a carpentry business focused on traditional craftsmanship. His son, Robert Granderath, born in 1928, was introduced to the trade at an early age and developed a strong connection to both craftsmanship and innovation.
The company’s early success was disrupted by the events of World War II. In 1944, both the family home and the workshop were almost completely destroyed by air raids. One year later, Hubert Granderath passed away following a heart attack after a bombing attack, leaving behind a business he had led independently for two decades.
Despite these hardships, Robert Granderath continued his professional training. He completed his journeyman’s examination in 1947 and earned his master craftsman certification in 1954. Together with his foster mother Anni, he rebuilt the workshop and eventually took full responsibility for the company.
Innovation as a Driving Force
Robert Granderath was known as a highly creative and forward-thinking entrepreneur. In search of new business opportunities, he began manufacturing components for roller shutters and later complete roller shutter systems. Using these systems, he built small paddling pools for his children—an idea that would soon shape the future of the company.
This marked Grando’s entry into pool construction. The first products were small paddling pools, followed by portable swimming pools made from hardboard panels. In 1960, Robert Granderath presented these pools at the SPOGA trade fair, where they attracted significant attention and commercial success.
The Invention That Defined the Brand
A major milestone came in 1963 with the development of the first fully automatic roller shutter swimming pool cover. The patent was filed in 1964 and officially granted in 1974. This innovation established Grando as the original manufacturer in this field and laid the foundation for its long-term specialization in automatic pool cover systems.
Grando has always been deeply rooted in family values. Robert Granderath’s wife, Ursula Granderath, managed the company’s entire accounting, and until 1969, the family living room also served as the business office. In 1973, the growing company moved into larger production and office facilities.
Today, Grando is managed by the second generation, with brothers Bert and Frank Granderath at the helm. Members of the fourth generation are already actively involved in the business, ensuring continuity and long-term expertise.
Customized Pool Cover Solutions and Sustainability
Over the decades, Grando has developed a wide range of swimming pool cover systems designed to meet diverse customer needs. Almost every pool type can be equipped with a customized, made-to-measure solution—individuality and precision manufacturing remain core principles of the brand.
Sustainability, environmental protection, and energy efficiency are also key priorities. According to the company, Grando swimming pool covers can reduce energy consumption by up to 80 percent while minimizing water evaporation by a similar margin.
One highlight is the Grando Solar Profile, which goes beyond heat retention. It actively generates heat by absorbing solar energy and transferring it directly into the pool water. This allows pools to maintain comfortable water temperatures throughout the swimming season without additional heating, significantly reducing energy costs and environmental impact.
Global Presence and Industry Recognition
Robert Granderath remained closely involved with the company until his death in 2012, contributing his passion and expertise to its continued growth. Today, Grando’s success is reflected in its international footprint and more than 100 awards received both in Germany and abroad.
As it marks its 100th anniversary, Grando represents a rare combination of traditional craftsmanship, technological innovation, and sustainable business practices—positioning the company as a global benchmark in the swimming pool cover industry.
Highlights from the Anniversary Celebrations
To mark its 100th anniversary, Grando GmbH Swimming Pool Covers celebrated a two-day jubilee in Bergisch Gladbach. The festivities began with a guided tour of the company’s premises for international guests, offering insights into production and development, followed by an informal networking reception. The evening continued with a gala event at the Althoff Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg, where representatives from industry and public life honored Grando’s history, entrepreneurial spirit, and the strength of family-owned businesses. Speeches by the Granderath family, a formal dinner, live entertainment, and a concluding fireworks display highlighted the occasion. The celebrations continued the following day with an open house at the company headquarters, bringing together employees, families, partners, customers, and friends to reflect on a century of success and to look ahead to the future.
Here are a few impressions from the anniversary celebrations.
