Global Procurement. Industrial Expertise. Since 1900.
Reliable sourcing solutions for industrial companies worldwide – built on more than 125 years of experience.
About Us
Industrial companies today face the challenge of keeping production processes running reliably while managing costs, resources and delivery times efficiently. Especially in the field of maintenance, repair and operations, reliable procurement is essential.
thenex supports companies worldwide in meeting these requirements successfully – with solutions that combine operational reliability, cost efficiency, short delivery times and the highest quality standards.
Another key factor is the reduction of complex supplier structures. By bundling procurement through thenex, administrative effort, coordination costs and interfaces can be significantly reduced.
Since its foundation in 1900, thenex has developed from a wholesale company for pipes and fittings into an internationally operating procurement service organisation. More than 125 years of experience, high customer satisfaction and worldwide references stand for reliability, quality and first-class service.
Mission & Vision
Our mission is to support industrial companies worldwide with reliable, efficient and solution-oriented procurement services. We combine customer-focused thinking, cost-efficient sourcing and high-quality products to create tailored solutions that sustainably strengthen our customers’ success.
Our vision is to be recognized worldwide as the preferred partner for the procurement of spare parts, industrial products, and services for warehouse, maintenance, and engineering projects—by both customers and suppliers.
Reliable sourcing solutions for industrial companies worldwide – built on more than 125 years of experience.
History
1900
The Foundation
From craftsmanship to industrial supply
In 1900, Theodor Nientimp founded the company as a master smith and locksmith. What began with steam engines and drive systems for the local textile industry soon developed into an industrial wholesale business for technical parts. This laid the foundation for more than a century of technical expertise and customer-focused service.
1945–1980
Rebuilding & Growth
A new start for the next generation
After the Second World War, Heinz Nientimp rebuilt the company from the ground up. Following his passing, Elisabeth Nientimp took over the management and led the business for several decades. Under her leadership, the company grew significantly and expanded its product range, while remaining deeply rooted in reliability, responsibility and family values.
1981–1998
The Birth of thenex
From local trade to international procurement
In 1981, Theo-Heinz Nientimp founded thenex Import-Export GmbH as a subsidiary of the family business. With a clear focus on export, procurement and international industrial services, the company began to expand beyond Germany. In 1998, the company was renamed thenex GmbH – marking the beginning of a new chapter as a globally active procurement service organisation.
2009–Today
4th Generation & Global Reach
Modern procurement with worldwide expertise
With Henry-Johann and Marten-Theodor Nientimp, the fourth generation joined the company and continued to develop thenex into an internationally operating procurement partner. Today, thenex supports industrial customers worldwide with a strong focus on sales, marketing, procurement and administration. Long-standing partnerships, especially in regions such as the Middle East, Latin America, Africa and Europe, underline the company’s global expertise and reliability.
Industries We Serve
We cooperate with various OEM companies that are experienced in servicing and upgrading industrial plants. We can also supply plant components designed by and for leading companies such as:
ABB – Alstom – Ardetem – Babcock – Bono Energia – BORSIG – Burgess Manning GmbH – Degussa – Demont – ENI – Galleri – Hamworthy Combustion – HYDRO AGRI Fertilizer Technology – Idrotermici – KBR – KEU – KHS – Konecranes – KRONES – KT Impianti – Linde – Lurgi – Nederlandse Stikstof Mij (NSM) – NOELL – NOVA Impianti – Officine Metalmeccaniche Nova – Pensotti Idrotermici – SAACKE Combustion – SAIPEM – SCANDI BREW – SCHADE – Sie Forney – Snamprogetti – Tecnimont – Thyssen Krupp Foerdertechnik – Thyssen Industrial Solutions – Thyssen Krupp Fertilizer Technologies – Uhde Fertilizer Technology (UFT)
Products & Services
thenex offers a broad range of industrial products, procurement services, and engineering solutions. From standard industrial components to specialised technical equipment, we help businesses source reliable products for maintenance, repair, operations (MRO), and project requirements.
Our range covers different products such as automation components, pumps and valves, weighing and material-handling equipment, compressors, motors, couplings and bearings, industrial communication accessories, tubes and pipes, fittings and flanges, gaskets and insulation materials, gears, drives and more.
Automation
Sourcing solutions for active and obsolete automation components
- Support for PLCs, sensors, drives, HMIs and control systems
- Fast response to reduce downtime and secure plant availability
Bulk Material Solutions
Solutions for efficient handling of bulk materials
- Suitable for industrial plants, terminals and production facilities
- Support with sourcing, engineering and international delivery
Burners & Combustion Equipment
Equipment for industrial combustion processes and thermal applications
- Reliable solutions for efficient and safe plant operation
- Suitable for demanding industrial environments and energy-intensive processes
Automation
Sourcing solutions for active and obsolete automation components.
- Support for PLCs, sensors, drives, HMIs and control systems.
- Fast response to reduce downtime and secure plant availability.
Bulk Material Solutions
Solutions for efficient handling of bulk materials.
- Suitable for industrial plants, terminals and production facilities.
- Support with sourcing, engineering and international delivery.
Burners & Combustion Equipment
Equipment for industrial combustion processes and thermal applications.
- Reliable solutions for efficient and safe plant operation.
- Suitable for demanding industrial environments and energy-intensive processes.
Assembled Skids
Pre-assembled skid solutions for industrial process applications.
- Designed to simplify installation and reduce on-site effort.
- Tailored to specific technical and operational requirements.
Burner Management Systems
Systems for safe monitoring and control of burner processes.
- Support for operational safety and process reliability.
- Suitable for industrial furnaces, boilers and combustion plants.
Combustion Equipment
Technical equipment for controlled and efficient combustion processes.
- Solutions for industrial heat generation and process optimisation.
- Focus on reliability, safety and long-term performance.
Industrial Burners
Industrial burner solutions for various process and energy applications.
- Designed for high performance, efficiency and operational safety.
- Suitable for heavy industry, energy and petrochemical plants.
Your Key Contacts
The thenex team consists of many experienced specialists across Sales, Procurement, Logistics, Administration and Service. For international business, Peter Schulte and Robin Volmering serve as your central points of contact, supporting customers, suppliers and international projects with experience and reliability.
Peter Schulte
Senior Sales Manager & Director/ Sales
Peter Schulte has been part of thenex since 1989 and our Senior Sales Manager & Director With his long-standing experience in international wholesale and export, he connects people, markets and solutions across borders, cultures and time zones.
His focus is on supporting customers reliably, even in complex or time-critical situations, and building long-term partnerships. Peter represents the values that have shaped thenex for decades: reliability, customer focus and efficiency.
Robin Volmering
Senior Procurement Manager & Director/ Procurement
Robin Volmering has been part of thenex since 2020 and is responsible for strategic procurement as well as the continuous development of the international supplier network. His role includes working closely with existing and new suppliers, strengthening partnerships and continuously optimising the supply chain.
With a strong focus on quality, availability and cost-efficient sourcing, Robin helps ensure that thenex can act flexibly, reliably and close to customer requirements — worldwide and backed by a strong international network.
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