We are still overwhelmed: On Thursday, we were declared Company of the Year at the Wuppertal Business Award 2023. This pleases us not only because we have always been strongly rooted in the region. It also shows that we have chosen the right path for the future with our strengths.
It was a solemn moment when the award was presented to our Managing Director Dr. Mark Herriger and our shareholders Iris and André Bovenkamp in the glass hall of the Stadtparkasse Wuppertal by its Chairman of the Board Gunther Wölfges. In doing so, Wölfges also named the points that led to the pleasing jury decision.
From Wuppertal to the world
As a traditional Wuppertal company, we are a prime example of the region’s economic strength. Our predecessor company was founded at the Nächstebreck site as early as 1893. The then cold strip and panel coating plant has since undergone rapid development. This also leads to the second reason for the jury’s decision: Today, we are a family-run multinational group of companies and operate production sites on four continents: in Europe, in North America, in South America and in Asia. This enables us to supply more than 30 industries with over 90 products.
Commitment to social issues and the environment
But at the same time – and this is argument number three – we have always remained particularly loyal to our Wuppertal home. We are committed to the city, its citizens and social coexistence. We also show this commitment to our environment and were therefore able to convince the jury in terms of sustainability. We can cover around 75 percent of our energy needs with green energy, and with our new coating line we use around 90 percent less solvent.
Course set for the future
“We take this award as an incentive to continue on our chosen path in the future,” said Dr. Mark Herriger. By transforming at an early stage, the company had set all the course for success as a modern company in the global market. But that was only possible because of the outstanding performance of all employees. “That’s why this award is a team award, which every single employee at our company has earned with great dedication. We would like to express our sincere thanks for that!”
Wuppertal Business Award – a coveted distinction
The Wuppertal Business Award, which has been presented under the patronage of the Lord Mayor for over 20 years, is much more than just an award. It is a symbol of a special entrepreneurship that is closely rooted in the region. That is why the requirements for participation are strictly regulated: A company must have been based in Wuppertal for at least three years, distinguish itself through special management achievements or special investment activity, and demonstrate social commitment.
