About us
From tradition into the future.
Origin and idea
The brothers Wolfgang, Ulrich, Richard and Josef Haselsteiner are third-generation forestry workers who grew up with their father's forestry work. Based on their own experience with the challenges of heavy timber harvesting, the four inventors developed an idea to make forestry work more efficient and ergonomic.
Market niche recognised
The brothers recognise the potential of hydraulic auxiliary winches and start developing prototypes that meet the requirements of forestry.
2016
Foundation of HAFO
The brothers merge their respective companies and found HAFO GmbH. They pool their knowledge and resources to develop innovative forestry technology.
Pioneering work in Ybbsitz
HAFO successfully developed and marketed its first hydraulically operated auxiliary cable winches in an outbuilding of the family home in Ybbsitz. These are characterised by their versatility and simple installation. They can be used on vehicles such as tractors, forwarders and harvesters, and revolutionise forestry work.
2021
Expansion plans
HAFO acquires a 7,409 square metre site in the Kreilhof business park in Waidhofen an der Ybbs, Lower Austria. The new site offers space for expansion, service and modern assembly.
2023
New company headquarters
A modern production and storage hall with an area of 1,500 square metres is built. HAFO moves its headquarters to the new location to meet the growing demand.
2024
Growth and internationalisation
In Austria, HAFO takes care of the marketing and servicing of the mounted cable winches produced by the German manufacturer Ritter. The company employs 12 people and exports its products to companies worldwide, including South Korea, Taiwan and Japan. The products, such as the portable SAPI winch, set standards in the industry. The winch can be used flexibly, is easy to operate and is available with various control systems (manual, electric or radio).
The company employs twelve people and exports its products worldwide, including to South Korea, Taiwan and Japan.
The products, such as the portable SAPI winch, set standards in the industry. The winch can be used flexibly, is easy to operate and is available with various control systems (manual, electric or radio).
