The name Fanello
Meili's history shows that foresight, timely setting of the course, and occasionally making unconventional decisions are, and always have been, common practice. At Meili, new things are not met with distrust, but are generally seen as an opportunity.
This is what happened over 30 years ago with the natural fiber hemp. While some were still discussing possible uses and others condemned hemp as an intoxicant, Meili was already conducting its first experiments with fabrics and yarns. In the following years, the centuries-old natural fiber became an important material at Meili. Under these circumstances, it was obvious to look for the name of the new product segment, which also included a natural bed, in this direction. It was to be a name that was memorable, sounded good in all languages, was easy to pronounce, and could be well implemented creatively.
After discussions and research, it turned out that there is a bird that feeds almost exclusively on hemp blossoms and seeds. This little bird with its history could no longer be gotten out of the minds of those involved. It was clear, however, that "Hänfling" (linnet) certainly could not be an ideal name for a new product. So the German Hänfling became the Italian Fanello, which stands as the namesake for the registered brand name "fanello."
Today, Meili Production AG hardly processes any hemp fabrics anymore. Instead, attention is focused more than ever on the bedding system created under this name.
From Backpack to Bed
Our company's roots go back to August 1, 1937, when Hermann Meili founded Meili & Co. AG in Schlieren. Initially, the company focused on manufacturing backpacks and cases for musical instruments.
Extension of the offerings
Four years later, Hermann Meili decided to manufacture cases as well, and his success proved him right.
Lack of space
To create sufficient production capacities, the company acquired buildings in Mogelsberg (SG) and Fahrwangen (Aargau) in 1945 and 1951, respectively.
Conversion
Soon, backpack production at the headquarters in Schlieren also reached its limits. To keep up with the increasing demand, Meili & Co. AG therefore expanded the third floor in Fahrwangen and moved part of the department there.
Secession
As case manufacturing gains increasing attention, a second company is founded. Meili AG – Custom Cases is established under the leadership of Walter Meili. His brother, Franz Meili, continues to manage the “old” Meili company.
Relocation
Relocation of the company headquarters to Fahrwangen and conversion into a family-owned public limited company by Herta and Franz Meili.
The 3rd Generation
After training as a travel goods saddler and completing language stays abroad, Peter Meili joined the family business and later took over its management.
Expansion
Due to renewed space constraints, the attic in Fahrwangen will be converted into a storage facility. The facade will also be renovated at the same time.
50 Years of Strong Backpacking
Meili & Co. AG is celebrating its 50th anniversary with the entire staff.
Reorientation
Backpack production halted due to competition from cheap foreign backpacks. Focus on technical leather goods and natural beds.
Fanello is born
The biggest customer moves its production abroad. From this necessity, the own bed brand fanello is created. Early on, the focus is on custom-made leisure beds.
Vacant production rooms are used as shops
Peter and Rosmarie Meili found the trading company Perofa GmbH, which later becomes the retail store "Trendsetter".
Renaming of Perofa GmbH
To increase brand recognition, the company Perofa is being renamed "Meili Huus." The logo now includes the distinctive "Meili" lettering. This often leads to confusion between the two companies later on.
New Beginning
What initially seemed like a painful end proved, in retrospect, to be a new beginning. Peter Meili and his son Ady certainly didn't bury their heads in the sand. With the help of Peter Meili's father Franz, who was still active in the company, they decided to found a new company. Together, they established Meili Production AG, which was to focus on the production of various fanello own-brand bed models and also carry out contract work in the field of technical textiles. The circle has since come full circle. Today, Meili Production AG is located at Eggenstrasse 5 in Fahrwangen, the original headquarters of Meili AG.
Germany as a business location
Sabine and Achim Ossenbach are opening a new showroom in Rösrath near Cologne, which will, among other things, present fanello products. In addition, numerous new trade fairs in Germany will be attended under the company name AOBAU.
A Showroom of a Special Kind
At almost 200 square meters, all fanello products can be viewed, tested and purchased in Fahrwangen. Thanks to a redesign by Fabienne Meier during the 2nd Corona lockdown, the industrial design is back and makes the space unique. We look forward to your visit.
A Glimpse into Our Production
