VARO’s history and journey
From a village smithy to a technology partner for Europe’s leading manufacturing companies
From a village smithy to an international customized machinery manufacturer.
VARO began in 1935 as a small village smithy in Hornslet, founded by Ingvar Olesen. The workshop handled everything from repairs and steel windows to agricultural equipment and specialized tasks for local industry. It was built on the traditional smithy mindset: anything can be done with the right skills, determination, and craftsmanship.
During the 1960s, the company entered a new phase. Under the name Ingvar Olesen’s Machine Factory, later known as VARO Machine Factory, it began developing more technically advanced solutions, including concrete mixers, oil heaters, and sanding equipment for the wood industry. The transition from traditional metalworking to engineering-driven machine building gained momentum.
When Ingvar’s son, Bjarne Olesen, took over the company in 1972, he brought international experience in automation and set a clear direction towards customized machinery. This laid the foundation for the VARO we know today.
The new VARO
In 1997, the company reached its next major milestone. Niels Jensen and Flemming Kristensen took over the management of VARO and began a new chapter focused on technological development, close customer collaboration, and strategic acquisitions.
Over the years, VARO expanded its capabilities to include stainless steel process equipment, packaging machinery, and advanced automation solutions. At the same time, the pharmaceutical industry became one of our most important business areas.
Ownership was also secured internally. Key employees became co-owners, ensuring that the company’s knowledge, values, and long-term direction remain in the hands of those who run the business every day.
As the company continued to grow, we eventually outgrew our facilities. In 2016, we brought our operations together in renovated premises at Sletten 8, followed by further expansions in the years that followed, including modern assembly halls, a dedicated test center, and in 2024 a new headquarters at Sortevej 12.
Today, we operate from approximately 16,000 m² of facilities in Hornslet—still rooted where it all began.
The development of VARO is not only about buildings and technology. In 2017, we became one of the first industrial companies in Denmark to engage in biodiversity initiatives through the organization Vild med Vilje. Since then, we have expanded our efforts with solar energy, renewable electricity, and a structured ESG strategy that formally reflects values we have always worked by: developing the machinery of the future with responsibility and consideration for climate, the environment, and people.
Today, VARO delivers customized machinery and process equipment to some of Europe’s leading industrial and pharmaceutical companies. We are proud to build on more than 90 years of experience – still driven by the same combination of craftsmanship, technical curiosity, and the determination to solve complex challenges.