“Everything in the green range”

Just a few kilometres north of the headquarters in Mulfingen, a new plant grew from the home soil of Germany’s Hohenlohe region in just six months. Here, in Hollenbach, ebm-papst has produced the largest flagship models in its product range: fans with a blade diameter of up to one meter. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology and spanning over 13,000 square metres, the plant sets benchmarks — including those in energy efficiency. Managing Director Production Thomas Wagner explains the concept behind ebm-papst’s newest location.

Mr Wagner, why is this plant located in Mulfingen-Hollenbach and not in Shanghai, Chennai or another low-wage location?

Thomas Wagner: Because all our data speaks in favour of the Hollenbach location. Refrigeration and air-conditioning technology, the industries for which we manufacture here, is a primarily European business with a high percentage of project business, in which speed and the ability to deliver are important. We cannot supply a customer in Vienna, Offenbach or Sheffield from China. With delivery times from eight to twelve weeks, that takes much too long.

Other than the geographical proximity to the markets, what else speaks in favour of Germany as a location or, more specifically, Hollenbach?

Wagner: For example, when looking at the costs, you have to remember logistics. Ocean freight for one large EC fan is a good 50 dollars! Much more important, however, is the fact that we produce high-tech products that need an appropriate development and production environment. In Hollenbach, we have that: highly skilled, experienced employees, longtime relationships with suppliers, short distances. All those involved in the project are close by and can make their contributions directly. If there is a problem, I can have all of the responsible colleagues sitting at a table in 15 minutes. We can easily produce simple “me-too” articles in cheaper foreign countries, but we manufacture premium products here, in the green Hollenbach countryside. This is supported by rational arguments like those I mentioned, but also, of course, by our close feeling of connection to the region.

The Hollenbach plant is not only located in the green countryside, it also has a lot of green technology built into it. What are you most proud of?

Wagner: The credit belongs primarily to the designers and specialists from a wide variety of trades. In an outstanding display of teamwork, they were able to complete the planning of this plant in just six months and build it in another six.

Pages: »1 »2