After a stay abroad at the former uvex Inc. in Rhode Island, USA, Gabriele Grau joined the family business in 1981 – initially in export, later taking responsibility for communication and press work at uvex sports for many years. But her commitment went far beyond that: she also contributed with great passion as an active shareholder in financial accounting, in product management for uvex sports eyewear, and in real estate management.
She also found personal happiness at uvex: during her time with the company, she met Werner Grau, who was then the managing director of ALPINA, and together they started a family.
She is the mother to two daughters, Alexa and Kira, who began their journeys within the company as the fourth generation. As chairwoman of the Rainer Winter Foundation, she devoted herself with genuine passion to supporting disadvantaged, ill, and socially vulnerable children and young people – particularly in her hometown of Fürth. Alongside her father, who sadly passed away in January 2025, and with the help of her daughter Alexa, she dedicated herself to fostering social responsibility and strengthening community bonds.
When Gabriele Grau looks back on her time at uvex today, she sees an impressive success story: since its founding in 1926, the family business has weathered three major global economic crises. After the Second World War, internationalisation and the expansion of business areas laid the foundation for stable, sustainable growth. She is particularly proud that uvex has also proven its strength in more recent crises – such as the financial crisis and the COVID pandemic – and was able to offer around 3,000 employees a secure workplace.
A significant milestone for her was the acquisition of HexArmor, which opened up new growth opportunities in the US market and beyond. The most emotional moment, however, was the sale of the family business to Warburg Pincus in July 2025. This decision was considered long and carefully within the family – driven by the desire to find a strong partner for the future. Gabriele Grau is convinced: with Warburg Pincus this wish has been fulfilled. The successful completion showed her how powerful and valuable the uvex brand is – a moment that filled her with great pride.
She is particularly pleased that the Grau and Winter families will continue to remain an active part of the uvex story: through their minority shareholding they continue to accompany the path of the corporate group – committed, connected, and full of confidence.
“uvex was never just a company for me – it was and is a part of my family, my story, and my heart. I am grateful that I was able to walk this path and that I can continue to help shape it in the future.”
