Two decades of company history
The fact that 20 years often pass you by quickly was also noticed by our managing director. In September 1998, Josef Frühwirth founded his company EPS Electric Power Systems and thus dared to take the step into self-employment. In an interview, he revealed to our colleague Irene what goals he has set himself and who he would like to thank.
Why did you start EPS?
Josef Frühwirth: 20 years ago, I didn’t just want to sell power supply devices and UPS systems, but also to offer a complete power supply solution. I wanted to offer the customer both the installation of the UPS system, as well as the switching device, transfer circuit and user-friendly bypass circuit. Instead of many different interfaces, the customer should have only one contact person for his entire power supply with our overall solution.
Hence the company name EPS ELECTRIC POWER SYSTEMS?
Josef Frühwirth: Exactly. At that time, the focus was simply still strongly on power distribution solutions, i.e. UPS systems including elective transfer circuits with a power generator. However, due to the wishes and requirements of our customers, the company’s focus shifted more and more towards modern and high-availability data center solutions.
What do you recommend to other entrepreneurs?
Josef Frühwirth: The most important thing is to listen to the customer and take their needs seriously. If you then also manage to develop high-quality solutions and constantly drive them forward, you have already done a lot right.
Which tasks challenge you the most?
Josef Frühwirth: Challenges are part of daily business – that’s quite normal and a good thing. The international projects in Switzerland, France or Germany, which are often far away, are always a challenge for us. We have to be well prepared and be able to react quickly. But only through such projects can we learn a lot and also develop further in the field of complete data center solutions.
When do you get heart palpitations?
Josef Frühwirth: When our technicians switch over the electricity of international banks or entire corporations during operation. The last time it was a data center with 600kW power output. Everything has to run smoothly. UPS system, emergency generator, etc. When I get the call that everything went well, I’m relieved and proud of the boys.
What are your personal milestones?
Josef Frühwirth: 2004 – the founding of the branch office in Groß Gerungs, opening of the new office building in 2012, founding of the subsidiary in Germany and the GmbH in Bratislava as well as the TQMi and ISO 9001:2015 certifications.
Your goals for the next 20 years?
Josef Frühwirth: Phew, I’m a bit older. It is important to me that we continue to develop sustainably and do not stand still. Issues such as availability in combination with energy efficiency will continue to play a major role in the future. I hope that in 20 years we will still be at the forefront and remain such a down-to-earth and future-oriented company. That’s what I want.
What would you like to add?
Josef Frühwirth: I would like to thank my entire team very much. For their commitment over the last 20 years. Of course, we would also like to thank our partners, suppliers and loyal customers who accompany us on our way. Above all, however, I would like to thank my family – my two daughters and my wife. For your support and understanding. Thank you!
Thank you very much for the interview!
