In common with the entire Group, Armstrong's Metal Ceiling Division is also founded on decades of entrepreneurial tradition. Arising from the former GEMA Metaldecken AG, its products and services continue a history of success that go back over 100 years.
Important milestones
1897
Viktor Gehrig founds the GEMA metal-processing company in the Swiss town of Walenstadt.
1955
Under the guidance of both entrepreneurs Gehrig and Mannhart, GEMA AG, with its head offices in St. Gallen (CH), is established. The company specialises in the manufacture and distribution of technical apparatus as well as in sheet metal processing.
1990
The companies GEMA AG in St. Gallen (CH), Phonex-Gema in Wetzwil (CH) and EMG Metalldecken GmbH in Rankweil (A) merge to form the GEMA Metal Ceilings Group. The plants in Rankweil and St. Gallen are responsible for the production of metal ceilings, while Phonex-Gema's remit is development and installation.
2000
The GEMA Metal Ceilings Group becomes affiliated to Armstrong World Industries based in Lancaster (USA). As an integral part of a worldwide group, it benefits from a valuable exchange of knowledge and experience as well as from a considerably expanded distribution and service network.
2002
The new group structure is also reflected in the company name: GEMA Metalldecken AG becomes Armstrong Metalldecken AG based in St. Gallen, EMG Metalldecken GmbH becomes Armstrong Metalldecken AG in Rankweil (A)
2003
The Metal Ceilings Division counts among the leading suppliers of metal ceiling systems worldwide. It maintains production sites in three European countries:
Armstrong Metal Ceilings Ltd., Stafford (UK)
Armstrong Metalldecken AG, Rankweil (A)
Armstrong Metalldecken AG, St. Gallen (CH)
Interesting facts and information about our Group history can be found on the internet platform of the Armstrong Group.
