Stage 2: Celebrating Innovation: From CNC Excellence to Local Partnerships in Slovakia
Michael Poepke | 31. July 2025
Today, we kick off day two of our tour in Partizánske, visiting one of HENNLICH´s largest customers in Slovakia — MicroStep. MicroStep is a leading manufacturer of CNC cutting machines that utilize advanced technologies such as laser, plasma, oxyfuel, waterjet, and milling.
Their solutions enable complex material processing and production automation across various industries. MicroStep´s branch in Partizánske is located in the historic industrial complex originally built as part of the famous Baťa shoe factory. Since 2003, the site has evolved into a modern hub for mechanical component production, CNC machine assembly, and testing. It’s a great example of how Slovakia’s industrial legacy is being preserved and transformed into a modern and innovative manufacturing ecosystem.
Into the green heart of Slovakia
Before reaching the final stop of our Slovak tour, we are visiting our new branch in Košťany nad Turcom – beautifully located in the heart of the Turiec region, often called the “Turčianska záhradka” (“Turiec garden”) for its stunning natural surroundings.
Upon arrival, we are warmly welcomed by our colleague dressed in traditional Slovak folk costume, offering bread and salt – a time-honored custom symbolizing hospitality and goodwill.
Here, we present an in-house application featuring an igus energy chain with chainflex cables in a vertical storage shuttle system, developed in close cooperation with our local customer. It’s a great opportunity to showcase innovation born from strong local partnership – all set against the backdrop of Slovak tradition and natural beauty.
A dynamic finale: Pumptrack in Martin
We wrap up our Slovak tour with an energetic stop in Martin, just a few kilometers from our branch in Košťany. The local pumptrack offers the perfect mix of fun and challenge — a modern cycling playground set against the scenic backdrop of green hills and fresh mountain air. The igus:bike masters the curves and bumps effortlessly: smooth, silent, and oil-free. A playful ending to a journey that celebrates not only technology and industry, but also the joy of motion.
Our riders:
Zuzana Šrancová
I’m Zuzana Šrancová and I’ve been working with igus products for almost 10 years as a marketing specialist at HENNLICH Slovakia. I live in a mountainous region, which makes it easy to enjoy the outdoors — I love going on bike trips with my family and spending weekends hiking in nature.
Joining the igus:bike tour is a great opportunity to combine my passion for green mobility with the work I truly enjoy. I’m proud to represent both our team and the idea of sustainable engineering on two wheels!
Marián Pevala
My name is Marián Pevala, I’m 43 and I’m from Martin, Slovakia. After completing my military career, I’ve been working as a product manager for igus energy chains and flexible cables at HENNLICH since 2020.
In my free time, I enjoy hiking and I’m also a passionate hobby craftsman – especially when it comes to working with wood.
I joined the tour to help promote a product that supports recycled plastics and contributes to a global green challenge full of exciting opportunities.
Map of this stage:
