Mikov Mikulášovice: A Czech Legacy with Global Reach

Mikov Mikulášovice is a legendary Czech brand recognized not only in the Czech Republic and Slovakia but also around the world. Known especially for its iconic “little fish” folding knife—a timeless classic once owned by nearly every boy—the company has continued to innovate with modern tools, including high-performance rescue knives.

Another long-standing name is the RON brand, a trusted supplier of office equipment in Czech and Slovak workplaces. Both companies share deep roots in the North Bohemian town of Mikulášovice, where industrial craftsmanship dates back to the late 18th century.

From Local Workshops to Industrial Pioneers

The region's industrial history began when trader Ignaz Rösler founded the first knife and tool workshop in Mikulášovice at the end of the 1700s. This sparked broader production of small metal goods in the town and in nearby Lipová, nestled in the Bohemian Switzerland region.

Rösler’s success inspired others. By the 19th century, multiple manufacturers had emerged, benefiting from economies of scale and turning the area into a renowned hub of metalwork. Dubbed the “Czech Solingen,” Mikulášovice gained a strong reputation throughout the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

A milestone came in 1863 when Johann Hille opened a factory in Lipová for aluminum foil production. By the late 1800s, it was the largest facility of its kind in northern Bohemia.

Twentieth-Century Development and Restructuring

While Lipová focused on producing metal accessories such as clips, Mikulášovice specialized in knife manufacturing—especially following the founding of independent Czechoslovakia in 1918.

After nationalization in 1948, the region's businesses were restructured. Two major national companies emerged: Koh-i-noor (focused on office supplies) and Sandrik (focused on knives). In 1955, all industrial operations were unified under the Mikov brand—short for “Mikulášovice Metal Industry.”

Modern Era and Reunification

In 1991, operations in Mikulášovice and Lipová separated. RON was acquired by Conmetron in 2003, and in 2017, the company also took over Mikov—bringing the two historic brands back under one roof.

Today, the RON brand supplies office essentials such as fasteners, cash boxes, key cabinets, and modular shelving systems. Under the Mikov brand, the company also offers hand tools under the Richter Extra and Narex labels.