Did you know Berger-Levrault started as a printing house? Right here in front of us stands a company with roots stretching back centuries. Its story isn’t just about software. It’s a tale of family legacy innovation and resilience.
The Berger-Levrault we know today is a major international software publisher. But its origins lie in 17th-century Strasbourg. A descendant of Bernhold Rihel a prototypographer who printed one of Switzerland’s first illustrated books in 1474 laid the groundwork. Friedrich Wilhelm Schmuck bought a building in Strasbourg in 1676 starting the long journey.
The name Berger-Levrault itself reflects a merging of families. The Schmuck family ran the business for generations. Then in 1761 Francois-Robert-Adrien Christmann’s partnership with Francois-Georges Levrault formed a new era. Levrault expanded the printing house and bookstore. He even bought a paper mill ensuring quality control. He cleverly bought up his competitors’ equipment adding to his printing power.
The business thrived printing official documents and books. During this time the printing house employed two presses in 1750. By 1780 this number rose to five. This shows the increasing demand for their services. The family continued the business through many changes. They even had a branch in Paris. Caroline Levrault widow of Laurent-Francois-Xavier Levrault ran the company for almost 30 years. She was even appointed royal printer under Charles X. This shows the firm’s importance.
The 19th century saw further expansion and modernization. The company adopted new technologies. They introduced advanced machinery. They won medals at world fairs showcasing their quality. A strike in 1877 over women compositors’ employment highlights a social aspect of the company’s history. This demonstrates challenges of the era. The company adapted and continued to innovate.
Later the Friedel family continued the Berger-Levrault legacy. They navigated through two World Wars. They even helped produce Michelin guides to battlefields. A fascinating example of adaptation. They pioneered photocomposition in Europe showing continued innovative spirit. They embraced new technologies. The company evolved.
Today Berger-Levrault’s software solutions impact many sectors. Its history a testament to adaptation and ingenuity. From a small printing house to a tech giant its story is truly remarkable. Stand here and reflect on this impressive legacy. Berger-Levrault’s story continues to unfold.