Date: 10/02/2026
Read Time: 4 minutes
Author: James Cox
Key points:
- A 30-year partnership built on shared values, engineering expertise and long-term thinking.
- How JUDO's people, processes and innovation culture shape its approach to water filtration.
- What makes JUDO a trusted manufacturing partner for Southland Filtration in Australia.
As Southland Filtration marks 30 years in business, we're taking the opportunity to reflect on the partnerships that have shaped who we are today.
From the very beginning, we've believed that the suppliers we choose to work with matter just as much as the solutions we deliver. That's why one of our earliest partnerships was with JUDO, a German manufacturer known for its engineering led approach to sediment filtration
"Real quality never happens by accident. It's shaped by people, values, and the standards you refuse to compromise on." Says Hartmut J. Dopslaff, Co. Owner. That philosophy is what makes JUDO an interesting brand to get to know — not just for what they make, but why they make it the way they do.
A name rooted in family and engineering
The name JUDO comes from the name of the company's founder, Julius Dopslaff, a senior engineer in the plumbing and heating industry who established his own business in Düsseldorf in 1936. From the very beginning, engineering know-how and practical problem solving were at the heart of the company.
90 years later, JUDO remains a family owned business. The company is actively led by Julius' son, Hartmut J. Dopslaff, alongside his daughter, Kathrin Reggi-Dopslaff. "Being family owned means we make decisions with long-term responsibility in mind, not short term gains. Our values of reliability and craftsmanship still guide everything we do" Says Hartmut J. Dopslaff.
Despite operating internationally and being a market leader in multiple product categories, JUDO has stayed true to its regional roots. The company continues to invest in its people, its facilities and its future, while remaining grounded in the principles it was built on.
1936: Foundation of Julius Dopslaff KG.
In 1936, Julius Dopslaff, a senior engineer in the sanitary and heating industry, sets up his own business in Düsseldorf. The cornerstone of his business is a job that is as difficult as it is unpopular: boiler cleaning. There were many calcified steam boilers back then that had to be boiled out with acid.
Innovation driven by real-world needs
With more than 100 patents to its name, JUDO has a long history of developing technologies that genuinely move the industry forward. Hartmut explains. "Our starting point is always listening — understanding how systems are really used, where inefficiencies occur, and what installers and users actually need day to day."
That thinking has led to a series of industry firsts over the years, including the invention of the backwash filter, the first proportional dosing device, and the world's first fully automatic water softening system. These aren't incremental tweaks, they're solutions that have reshaped how water treatment systems are designed and maintained.
Independent certifications, quality seals and industry awards reinforce that commitment. Most recently, JUDO received the prestigious PLUS X AWARD for "Excellent Brand Quality", recognising not just innovation, but trustworthiness and long-term performance.
1975: Innovative step in filter technology
With the world’s first backwash protective filter, JUDO brings an innovation to the market that has a lasting impact on the industry and completely reinvents the protective filter.
1980: Large-scale desalination with JUDO reverse osmosis systems
Drawing is still done by hand – without CAD support. The number of units is growing – as can be seen during assembly and final inspection. The 1,000th unit of the DX 2 softener leaves the factory.
Quality that extends beyond the product
For JUDO, quality doesn't stop once a product leaves the factory. Every system is engineered and manufactured with a focus on durability, reliability and consistent performance — but the company places just as much emphasis on service and support.
"For us, consultation, guidance and long-term relationships are part of the product — not an optional extra." Stefan Gölz, Head of Technical Consultation. It's a customer-first mindset that reflects the company's family business roots: treat partners properly, stand by what you supply, and build trust over time.
This approach is a big part of why JUDO products are relied on in critical water applications around the world, from domestic drinking water to process and heating systems.
Sustainability as a responsibility, not a trend
Sustainability is built into both JUDO's operations and product design. Across all sites, operations are powered by green electricity, and sustainable processes are prioritised wherever possible. JUDO products are designed to protect water installations, reduce the need for repairs and replacements, and minimise waste over their lifespan.
Backwash filtration technology eliminates the need for disposable filter cartridges, reducing material waste. Systems that support water reuse and the recovery of valuable materials help strengthen the circular economy. Even details like using FSC certified printed materials reflect a broader commitment to responsible practice.
"Sustainability isn't a single initiative for us,' says Harmut, 'it's a series of thoughtful decisions we make every day."
Looking ahead, without losing sight of where it started
JUDO's vision is clear: to treat water using innovative and sustainable technologies, whether it's drinking water, heating water, well water or even seawater. While the applications continue to expand, the philosophy remains the same.
As a German family business with a long tradition, JUDO continues to balance heritage with progress. The same pioneering spirit that drove early inventions still guides today's research and development — always asking how water quality can be improved, made safer, and managed more responsibly.
The people behind the technology
Behind every JUDO product is a team of people who care deeply about getting the details right. Engineers, designers and R&D specialists work closely together, turning ideas into practical solutions that perform in the real world.
A typical day in the R&D team might involve testing new concepts, refining prototypes, and collaborating across departments to ensure every component meets JUDO's high standards. "Our work is hands-on, curious and collaborative — driven by teamwork and a shared sense of purpose." Hartmut J. Dopslaff, Co. Owner.
That culture is collaborative, practical and values led and is one of the defining strengths of the company. It's also what ensures JUDO continues to deliver products that live up to their reputation, year after year.
Why Southland Filtration partners with JUDO
At Southland Filtration, the suppliers we choose to work with matter just as much as the solutions we deliver. We partner with brands that share our commitment to quality, reliability and long-term thinking — and JUDO is a natural fit.
Like Southland, JUDO is a family owned business built on engineering expertise and practical problem solving. Their focus on durable design, rigorous testing and continuous improvement aligns closely with our own approach to solving water quality challenges across Australia.
Just as importantly, JUDO's emphasis on support, training and ongoing product development means our teams can stand behind the solutions we specify and install with confidence. Matt Cox, CEO Southland Filtration says "For us, it's not just about supplying equipment — it's about partnering with a manufacturer that truly understands the real-world demands faced by installers, engineers and end users."
By working with JUDO, we're able to offer proven, future-ready filtration solutions backed by a company that values trust, performance and responsibility as much as we do.
Get in touch?
We partner with manufacturers who share our commitment to quality, reliability and long-term thinking to deliver trusted water filtration solutions across Australia. Call us to talk about your project 1800 656 771 or email us.
Southland Filtration is a leading Australian provider of commercial water filtration solutions. We’ve been helping businesses since 1995 with a focus on quality, custom solutions, and reliable service. We work with businesses and organisations in Australia and New Zealand to address their unique water challenges and maintain the highest standards.
