Founder Wieland Viessmann had the right vision. When searching for a market niche where he could start his own business, he chose model train accessories - his own experience as a kid contributed to his decision. But before he founded a company he became a toolmaker. After a couple of years of professional experience and another two years at a Technical College he passed his exam as mechanical engineer. From 1982 to 1987 he worked as designer for production equipment and was in charge of the warehouse and the logistics at Viessmann heating systems. This career was a good foundation for his next steps - and still today he leaves his office from time to time and is slipping back into the role as constructional engineer.

1987 That is when his success story began. A small shed in Reddighausen, a small suburb of Hatzfeld, and a few machines.

1988 Production started with 7 employees. The first HO-models were manufactured -the classic park lantern, curved post top lanterns and curved pole lanterns were introduced.

1989 the production capacity was expanded due to high demand.

1991 the first TT products came onto the market. It was a brave but successful attempt to enter this market since nobody had experience with TT gauge mainly used in the former German federal republic (DDR).